Capitano

Definition

The capitano is a stock character in Commedia dell'Arte, representing a braggart soldier who often displays exaggerated bravado and pretentiousness. This character typically serves as a comedic foil, embodying themes of false heroism and romantic idealism while ultimately being comically inept and cowardly when faced with real danger.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The capitano is often depicted wearing a flamboyant military uniform and carrying a sword, symbolizing his perceived status and bravado.
2. This character typically engages in exaggerated posturing and boasts about his supposed military exploits and romantic conquests, which are often inflated or fabricated.
3. In interactions with other characters, the capitano often faces ridicule from the Zanni or is outsmarted by the more cunning characters, highlighting his comic ineptitude.
4. The capitano's antics often revolve around themes of love, as he pursues a beautiful woman but often fails in his attempts to win her affection due to his cowardly nature.
5. This character type has influenced various modern interpretations of the 'braggart' archetype in contemporary theater and film, showcasing how the capitano's traits resonate beyond its original context.

Review Questions

• How does the character of capitano serve as a comedic foil in Commedia dell'Arte?
  • The capitano acts as a comedic foil by representing an exaggerated version of bravery and romance that quickly falls apart in real situations. While he boasts about his heroism and charm, his cowardice is exposed when faced with actual danger or competition. This contrast not only highlights his absurdity but also amplifies the comedic effect through interactions with more cunning characters like the Zanni, who often outwit him.
• What are some common traits and behaviors associated with the capitano character in Commedia dell'Arte?
  • Common traits of the capitano include excessive bragging about his military prowess, romantic exploits, and an ostentatious display of wealth through flamboyant costumes. He tends to engage in exaggerated physicality, employing grand gestures and dramatic speech to assert his supposed dominance. However, when challenged or confronted, his cowardly nature emerges, leading to humorous situations where he tries to avoid conflict or impress others without any real capability.
• Evaluate the impact of the capitano on the themes explored in Commedia dell'Arte and its influence on modern theatrical representations.
  • The capitano contributes significantly to themes of false heroism and romantic disillusionment within Commedia dell'Arte. His character critiques societal ideals around masculinity and honor by exposing the ridiculousness of bravado without substance. This archetype has left a lasting legacy in modern theater, influencing portrayals of braggarts in various genres, from farce to contemporary comedy, where similar traits of inflated self-importance coupled with incompetence continue to entertain audiences.

Related terms

Commedia dell'Arte: A form of improvisational theatre that originated in Italy during the 16th century, known for its use of stock characters, physical comedy, and masked performers.

Zanni: A group of comic servant characters in Commedia dell'Arte, characterized by their cleverness, agility, and ability to manipulate situations to their advantage.

Pantalone: Another prominent stock character in Commedia dell'Arte, typically portrayed as a greedy old man, representing the bourgeoisie and often involved in schemes and misunderstandings.