1.3 Commedia dell'arte
7 min read•august 21, 2024
, a popular Italian theater form, emerged in the 16th century. It featured improvised performances, stock characters, and distinctive . This lively art form blended , social satire, and acrobatics.
Commedia dell'arte influenced Western theater, inspiring playwrights like Shakespeare and Molière. Its legacy lives on in modern comedy and , though it declined in the 18th century due to changing tastes and social shifts.
Origins of commedia dell'arte
- Developed in Italy during the 16th century as a form of popular theater
- Emerged from the tradition of street performers and traveling entertainers
- Became a distinct theatrical genre with its own conventions and stock characters
Roots in Italian Renaissance theater
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- Grew out of the Renaissance spirit of humanism and individualism
- Incorporated elements of classical Roman comedy and medieval farce
- Reflected the social and cultural changes of the time, such as the rise of the merchant class
Influence of carnival traditions
- Drew inspiration from the festive atmosphere and maskings of Italian carnival celebrations
- Adopted the use of masks and exaggerated costumes from carnival practices
- Incorporated improvised comic sketches and satirical skits performed during carnival
Emergence as professional theater form
- Marked the rise of professional acting troupes in Italy
- Actors specialized in specific stock characters and developed their improvisational skills
- Troupes traveled from city to city, performing in public squares and private residences
Key characteristics of commedia dell'arte
- Highly physical and visual form of theater, relying on gestures, acrobatics, and comedy
- Featured a set of recurring stock characters, each with distinct traits and masks
- Performances were largely improvised based on a loose scenario or plot outline
Improvisation vs scripted performances
- Actors improvised dialogue and actions within a predetermined framework
- Scenarios provided a basic plot structure, but the specific jokes and gags were created on the spot
- Later in the history of commedia dell'arte, some performances became more scripted and less improvised
Stock characters & their traits
- Each character represented a specific social type or personality trait
- Characters were instantly recognizable by their distinctive masks, costumes, and mannerisms
- Examples include the clever servant , the miserly old man , and the boastful soldier
Masks & costumes
- Masks were a central feature of commedia dell'arte, allowing actors to embody their characters fully
- Each mask had a specific design and color scheme that corresponded to the character's traits
- Costumes were exaggerated and colorful, often featuring geometric patterns and contrasting colors
Physical comedy & acrobatics
- Performances showcased the actors' physical skills, including acrobatics, tumbling, and stage combat
- Slapstick humor, such as pratfalls and comedic beatings, was a staple of commedia dell'arte
- Actors trained extensively to develop their physical agility and comedic timing
Themes of social satire
- Commedia dell'arte often poked fun at the social hierarchies and institutions of the time
- Plots frequently revolved around the struggles of the lower classes against the upper classes
- Satirical elements targeted the vices and follies of different social groups, such as the greed of merchants or the vanity of nobility
Famous stock characters
- Commedia dell'arte featured a wide array of stock characters, each with their own distinct personality, mask, and costume
- These characters were divided into four main categories: , , , and Il Capitano
- Actors specialized in playing one or more of these stock characters throughout their careers
Zanni (servants)
- Represented the clever and resourceful servant class
- Examples include Arlecchino (also known as ), a mischievous and acrobatic servant, and , a cunning and manipulative valet
- Often played the role of the trickster, outwitting their masters and other characters
Vecchi (old men)
- Portrayed the wealthy and often miserly old men of the upper classes
- Examples include Pantalone, a greedy Venetian merchant, and , a pedantic scholar from Bologna
- Frequently served as the targets of the Zanni's tricks and the obstacles to the Innamorati's love
Innamorati (lovers)
- Represented the young lovers, often from wealthy families
- Examples include Flavio and Isabella, who were typically portrayed as sincere and romantic
- Their love story often formed the central plot of the commedia dell'arte scenario, with various characters helping or hindering their union
Il Capitano (the Captain)
- Depicted a boastful and cowardly military officer, often of Spanish origin
- Examples include Spavento and Matamoros, who bragged about their military prowess but were quick to flee from actual danger
- Served as a satirical commentary on the military and political powers of the time
Commedia dell'arte troupes
- Commedia dell'arte was performed by professional acting troupes that traveled throughout Italy and later Europe
- These troupes had a hierarchical structure and a repertoire of scenarios they could perform at a moment's notice
- The most famous troupes helped spread the popularity of commedia dell'arte across the continent
Structure & hierarchy of troupes
- Troupes were typically led by a director known as the capocomico, who oversaw the artistic and business aspects of the company
- The most experienced and skilled actors played the lead roles, while younger actors took on supporting characters
- Troupes also included musicians, acrobats, and other performers who enhanced the overall spectacle
Prominent troupes in Italy
- The , founded by , was one of the most renowned commedia dell'arte troupes of the 16th century
- The , led by , was another influential troupe known for their scripted performances
- The , under the direction of Giovan Battista Andreini, was active in the early 17th century and helped popularize commedia dell'arte in France
Spread of troupes across Europe
- Italian commedia dell'arte troupes began touring Europe in the late 16th century, performing in France, Spain, England, and other countries
- The popularity of these troupes led to the adaptation of commedia dell'arte elements into local theatrical traditions
- Commedia dell'arte's influence can be seen in the works of playwrights such as Shakespeare, Molière, and Goldoni
Influence on Western theater
- Commedia dell'arte had a profound impact on the development of Western theater, both during its height in the 16th and 17th centuries and in the centuries that followed
- Its stock characters, improvisational techniques, and comedic style influenced playwrights, actors, and theater practitioners across Europe
- The legacy of commedia dell'arte can still be seen in various forms of modern theater and popular entertainment
Impact on Shakespeare & Molière
- Shakespeare incorporated elements of commedia dell'arte in his comedies, such as the use of mistaken identities and clever servants
- Molière drew heavily from commedia dell'arte in his satirical plays, adapting stock characters like the miserly old man and the pedantic doctor
- Both playwrights were inspired by the physicality and wit of commedia dell'arte performances
Evolution into other comic forms
- Commedia dell'arte's influence can be traced in the development of other comic theater forms, such as the French farce and the English pantomime
- The stock characters and comedic routines of commedia dell'arte were adapted and transformed to suit local tastes and cultural contexts
- The improvisational spirit of commedia dell'arte also inspired the creation of new theatrical styles, such as the Comédie-Italienne in France
Continued presence in modern theater
- Commedia dell'arte techniques and characters continue to be taught in theater schools and workshops around the world
- Modern playwrights and directors often draw inspiration from commedia dell'arte when creating new works
- The legacy of commedia dell'arte can be seen in various forms of contemporary theater, from physical comedy and improvisation to masked performance and satirical social commentary
Decline of commedia dell'arte
- Despite its immense popularity and influence, commedia dell'arte began to decline in the 18th century due to a combination of artistic, social, and cultural factors
- The rise of new theatrical forms and changing audience tastes contributed to the gradual disappearance of traditional commedia dell'arte troupes
- However, the spirit and techniques of commedia dell'arte lived on in other forms of theater and continue to inspire performers and audiences to this day
Shift towards scripted plays
- As the 18th century progressed, there was a growing preference for fully scripted plays over the improvisational style of commedia dell'arte
- Playwrights like in Italy and Marivaux in France wrote comedies that incorporated commedia dell'arte characters but relied on predetermined dialogue and plot
- This shift reflected a changing artistic sensibility that valued the literary merits of theater over the spontaneity of improvisation
Competition from other theater forms
- The emergence of new theatrical genres, such as the sentimental comedy and the bourgeois drama, provided audiences with alternative forms of entertainment
- Opera and ballet also grew in popularity during the 18th century, drawing audiences away from commedia dell'arte performances
- These competing forms of theater often had greater financial backing and cultural prestige, making it harder for commedia dell'arte troupes to survive
Social & cultural changes in Europe
- The Age of Enlightenment in the 18th century brought about significant changes in European society, including a growing emphasis on reason, individualism, and social reform
- The satirical and often subversive nature of commedia dell'arte began to lose its appeal in this new intellectual climate
- As the old social hierarchies and institutions that commedia dell'arte mocked started to crumble, the genre's relevance and impact diminished
Key Terms to Review (28)
Arlecchino: Arlecchino is a classic character from the Italian theatrical form known as Commedia dell'arte, characterized by his colorful patchwork costume and playful, mischievous nature. As a servant or trickster figure, he embodies cleverness and agility, often using physical comedy and acrobatics to entertain audiences while navigating the social hierarchy of the plays.
Brighella: Brighella is a stock character from the Italian theatrical form known as Commedia dell'arte, characterized by his cunning, scheming nature and a sharp wit. Often depicted as a servant or a rogue, he represents the archetypal 'clever servant' who often outsmarts others and navigates complex social situations. His role highlights themes of deception, social mobility, and the human condition, making him an essential figure in the vibrant world of Commedia dell'arte.
Burlesque: Burlesque is a theatrical form that uses humor, satire, and exaggeration to entertain and often parody various subjects, particularly in literature and society. It typically features a blend of comedic performance and dance, allowing for playful interpretations of serious topics. This genre emphasizes exaggerated characters, costumes, and scenarios that aim to evoke laughter while providing commentary on societal norms and expectations.
Carlo Goldoni: Carlo Goldoni was an influential Italian playwright of the 18th century, best known for reforming the traditional commedia dell'arte by introducing more structured plots and character development. His works often focused on everyday life and featured relatable characters, moving away from the improvisational nature of commedia dell'arte, while still retaining some of its elements. Goldoni's plays are significant for their balance of humor and social commentary, which helped to shape modern Italian theater.
Commedia dell'arte: Commedia dell'arte is a form of improvisational theater that originated in Italy in the 16th century, characterized by its use of stock characters, masks, and exaggerated physical movements. It combines comedy with elements of improvisation and physicality, often featuring lively performances that rely heavily on the actors' skills and interactions with the audience. The costumes in commedia dell'arte are crucial as they reflect the distinct identities of characters, often drawn from societal archetypes, which can connect to the evolution of costume design in theater history.
Commedia style: Commedia style refers to a theatrical performance style that originated from the Italian commedia dell'arte in the 16th century, characterized by its use of stock characters, improvisation, and physical comedy. This style heavily influenced European theater, emphasizing a blend of humor and social commentary through exaggerated actions and distinctive masks. Its impact can still be seen in modern performance techniques and improvisational theater.
Confidenti: Confidenti refers to a specific type of character in the Commedia dell'arte tradition, often depicted as a clever and shrewd servant or intermediary. These characters are typically seen navigating social dynamics, utilizing wit and cunning to achieve their goals, often acting as a bridge between the high-born characters and the common folk. Their role highlights the themes of deception, social status, and the complexities of human relationships within the theatrical narrative.
Dottore: The term 'dottore' refers to a stock character in Commedia dell'arte, typically portrayed as a pompous doctor or scholar who often speaks in an exaggeratedly intellectual manner. This character is known for his long speeches filled with pseudo-scientific jargon, showcasing a lack of practical knowledge despite his apparent education. Dottore's role often serves as a comic foil to other characters, highlighting the absurdity of his pretensions and the folly of relying on book knowledge over real-life experience.
Fedeli: In the context of Commedia dell'arte, 'fedeli' refers to a type of character known as the 'faithful servant.' These characters typically embody loyalty and devotion, often serving as comic foils or helpers to the more prominent characters in the stories. Fedeli characters often find themselves caught between the whims of their masters and their own desires, creating humorous situations that highlight the social dynamics of the time.
Flaminio Scala: Flaminio Scala was a prominent Italian actor, playwright, and director, known for his significant contributions to the development of Commedia dell'arte in the 17th century. His work included both performances and writings that helped to shape the improvisational style and character archetypes of this theatrical tradition. Scala’s influence extended beyond just his performances; he was instrumental in codifying many of the practices that would become standard in Commedia dell'arte, bridging the gap between scripted theater and improvisation.
Francesco Andreini: Francesco Andreini was a prominent Italian actor, playwright, and director in the late 16th and early 17th centuries, recognized for his significant contributions to the commedia dell'arte. He was a member of the renowned theater troupe, I Gelosi, which played a vital role in popularizing this improvisational form of theatre across Europe. Andreini's work blended traditional themes with innovative storytelling techniques, making him a key figure in shaping the character archetypes and narrative structures found in commedia dell'arte.
Gelosi: Gelosi refers to a prominent acting troupe from the late 16th century known for their contributions to the development of Commedia dell'arte. This troupe was instrumental in popularizing the improvisational style and stock characters that define this theatrical form. The gelosi were celebrated for their vibrant performances, which blended humor and emotional depth, influencing the evolution of theater in Europe.
Harlequin: Harlequin is a classic character from the Italian theatrical tradition of Commedia dell'arte, known for his colorful checkered costume, mask, and lively personality. This character is often portrayed as a clever servant who uses wit and acrobatics to navigate tricky situations, embodying themes of love, mischief, and social commentary. Harlequin’s role emphasizes the importance of physical comedy and improvisation in performance, making him a central figure in the comedic tradition.
Il capitano: Il capitano, or 'the captain,' is a stock character in Commedia dell'arte known for his braggadocio, exaggerated bravado, and often cowardly nature. He typically presents himself as a valiant and wealthy military figure, but his actions often reveal a more cowardly and self-serving personality. This character is integral to the comedic dynamic of the performances, often creating conflict and humor through his interactions with other characters, especially the clever servant figures.
Improvisation: Improvisation is the spontaneous creation of dialogue, action, or character without a script or pre-planned structure. It allows performers to react and adapt in real-time, fostering creativity and encouraging a natural flow of ideas. This art form enhances collaboration among actors and serves as a vital tool in developing characters and exploring new narrative paths.
Influence on clowning: The influence on clowning refers to the various artistic, cultural, and historical factors that have shaped and developed the practice of clowning over time. This includes the traditions and styles derived from early forms of performance, like Commedia dell'arte, where character archetypes and physical comedy techniques laid the groundwork for modern clowning. By combining elements of improvisation, exaggerated physicality, and social commentary, this influence has led to a rich and varied performance art that continues to evolve today.
Innamorati: Innamorati, meaning 'the lovers' in Italian, are key characters in Commedia dell'arte, representing young, romantic couples often caught in humorous situations. They embody the ideals of love and passion but are typically portrayed as naive and overly emotional, leading to comedic misunderstandings. Their interactions drive the plot forward and highlight the contrasts between their romantic aspirations and the realities of the world around them.
Inspiration for Contemporary Comedy: Inspiration for contemporary comedy refers to the various influences and sources that shape modern comedic expressions, drawing from historical forms, social commentary, and everyday experiences. It encapsulates how the themes, styles, and techniques from earlier comedic traditions evolve and find relevance in today's cultural landscape. This inspiration is often derived from classical theatrical styles, societal norms, and the exploration of human behavior, leading to new forms of humor that resonate with current audiences.
Italian Renaissance: The Italian Renaissance was a cultural movement that began in the 14th century and lasted into the 17th century, marking a period of renewed interest in the arts, literature, and the classics from Ancient Greece and Rome. It was characterized by a focus on humanism, individualism, and the exploration of perspective in art, which significantly transformed theater and performance practices during this time.
Lazzi: Lazzi are comic routines or physical gags that are an essential part of Commedia dell'arte performances. These improvised actions, often exaggerated and slapstick in nature, serve to entertain the audience and showcase the skills of the actors. They can range from simple jokes to elaborate sequences, allowing performers to display their physicality and timing while connecting with their characters and the overall narrative.
Masks: Masks are integral elements in theater, particularly in the context of Commedia dell'arte, serving as tools for character portrayal and storytelling. They often exaggerate facial features and expressions, allowing actors to convey emotions and traits quickly, which is essential in this improvisational style. Masks also represent archetypes, providing visual cues to the audience about each character's role and personality.
Pantalone: Pantalone is a stock character from the Italian theatrical tradition of Commedia dell'arte, typically portrayed as a wealthy, miserly old man. He often serves as a comedic figure who embodies greed and folly, frequently chasing after younger characters and engaging in humorous interactions. His exaggerated traits and distinctive costume, which includes a long red coat and a mask with a prominent nose, make him instantly recognizable in performances.
Physical Comedy: Physical comedy is a theatrical style that emphasizes the use of bodily movement, gestures, and physical actions to create humor and entertain an audience. This form of comedy relies heavily on visual gags, exaggerated movements, and slapstick elements, which often transcend language barriers. It engages the audience through a combination of skillful timing, precision in movement, and often involves a sense of playfulness and absurdity.
Slapstick: Slapstick is a style of humor that relies on exaggerated physical actions and absurd situations to elicit laughter. It often includes pratfalls, visual gags, and comedic violence, making it a vital component in various comedic performances. Slapstick's roots can be traced back to the early forms of theater, where the use of props and physicality brought humor to the audience in a direct and engaging manner.
Traveling troupes: Traveling troupes are small groups of actors who perform plays in various locations, often moving from town to town. These ensembles were essential to the spread of theater, particularly during the Renaissance and early modern periods, as they brought performances to audiences who might not have access to permanent theaters. Their adaptability and ability to connect with diverse communities helped lay the groundwork for modern theater practices.
Vaudeville: Vaudeville was a theatrical variety show popular in the United States from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, featuring a mix of specialty acts such as comedians, musicians, dancers, and magicians. This genre played a crucial role in shaping American entertainment and served as a precursor to modern forms like television variety shows and musical theater.
Vecchi: In the context of Commedia dell'arte, vecchi refers to the stock characters that represent older, often foolish or greedy figures, usually in contrast to the younger lovers. These characters are typically portrayed as bumbling and comical, adding humor and conflict to the narrative while also reflecting societal norms about age and authority.
Zanni: Zanni refers to a type of comedic character found in the traditional Italian theater known as Commedia dell'arte. These characters often serve as the clever servant or trickster, embodying the qualities of wit, agility, and resourcefulness. Zanni characters typically wear distinctive costumes, characterized by their masks and playful attire, and play a crucial role in driving the humor and plot of the performances.