Commedia Dell'Arte

Commedia dell'arte is a form of theatre from northern Italy in the 15th century. It involves the use slapstick comedy to make fun of the rich and powerful, also it uses stock characters that are split into 3 main categories - Masters, Servants and Lovers. During 15th century Italy there was not just one language that was spoken by the masses. So to interest everyone the actors in commedia dell'arte would say occasional words but mostly talk with grunts and other noises, like Mr Bean. 

Commedia dell'arte is one of, if not the most influential form of drama ever. It is present in everything! For example it is extremely easy to see in Black Adder II. Baldrick is a Zanni, Black Adder a Arlechino, Queen Elizabeth a Pantalone and Lord Flashheart an Il Capitano. These are just a few of the many comparisons!

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For information on the character types  https://www.italymask.co.nz/About+Masks/Commedia+dellArte+Characters.html

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The Zanni are the lowest in the pyramid of characters in commedia dell'arte, they are stupid curious slaves. The Zanni are the underdogs in these pieces, we are meant to feel sorry for them and end up rooting for their success. 

Next, the Pantalone. These are a part of the masters, they are extremely greedy and horny- always counting money or searching for Colombina their maid who they enjoy looking at and groping. Pantalone's character is generally an old merchant, often wealthy and esteemed, at other times completely ruined, yet always an old man in every detail, with business skills and a desire for women.