The Commedia Dell'Arte: A Study In Italian Popular Comedy (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9781163099759)

""The Commedia Dell�������Arte: A Study In Italian Popular Comedy"" by Winifred Smith is a comprehensive exploration of the Commedia dell�������Arte, a form of Italian theater that emerged in the 16th century and continued to be popular throughout Europe until the 18th century. The book provides a detailed analysis of the history, characters, and techniques of this unique style of theater, which was characterized by its use of stock characters, improvisation, and physical comedy.Smith examines the origins of the Commedia dell�������Arte, tracing its roots back to the medieval Italian tradition of street theater. She then delves into the various stock characters that were commonly featured in Commedia dell�������Arte performances, including the Harlequin, the Pantalone, and the Doctor. The book also explores the different types of scenarios that were used in Commedia dell�������Arte performances, such as the lazzi, which were short comic interludes.In addition to analyzing the techniques and characters of Commedia dell�������Arte, Smith also discusses the social and political context in which this form of theater emerged. She examines how Commedia dell�������Arte reflected and commented on the social and political issues of its time, including the rise of the bourgeoisie and the decline of the aristocracy.Overall, ""The Commedia Dell�������Arte: A Study In Italian Popular Comedy"" provides a comprehensive and engaging overview of this fascinating form of theater. Smith�������s meticulous research and insightful analysis make this book an essential resource for anyone interested in the history of theater, Italian culture, or the art of comedy.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

Author: Winifred Smith
ISBN-10: 1163099759
ISBN-13: 9781163099759
Publisher: Kessinger Publishing
Language: English
Published: 09/10/2010
Pages: 306
Format: Paperback
Weight: 0.91lbs
Size: 9.00h x 6.00w x 0.64d