Question

By 1931, Charles Chaplin's "Tramp" was arguably the most famous personality in the world. What were the key features of Chaplin's silent-film artistry as exemplified by the character of the Tramp and his adventures in City Lights (1931)?

Answer 1

Charles Chaplin's artistry in silent films is characterized by expressive physical comedy, the mix of humor and pathos, and visual storytelling, as seen in the globally recognized character 'The Tramp' from City Lights (1931).

Step-by-step explanation:

By 1931, Charles Chaplin's character 'The Tramp' had become a global icon, best exemplified in his film City Lights. The key features of Chaplin's silent-film artistry included his expressive physical comedy, the poignant combination of humor and pathos, and his use of visual gags and clever storytelling to overcome the absence of spoken dialogue. The Tramp was a character of resilience and heart, sporting a trademark ensemble of a bowler hat, baggy trousers, tight coat, large shoes, and a bamboo cane. In City Lights, these aspects were ingeniously utilized to create a narrative that resonated deeply with audiences during the Great Depression, offering both entertainment and a critique of social disparities.