Question

In Italian Commedia, performers played the same stock characters throughout most of their careers.

a. true
b. false

Answer 1

It is true that in the Italian Commedia dell'Arte, performers often specialized in playing the same stock characters throughout their careers, contributing to the unique and enduring nature of this theatrical style.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the Italian Commedia dell'Arte, it is true that performers often played the same stock characters throughout their careers. This form of theater was characterized by the use of these archetypal characters, each embodying a specific type, such as Capitano (the braggart soldier), Zanni (crafty servants like Arlechino), Pantalone (a greedy old man), and Dottore (a foolish doctor).

The actors specialized in these roles, honing their craft and becoming synonymous with their characters, which were crucial to the improvisational nature of Commedia dell'Arte.

With elaborate costumes, distinctive physical portrayals, and often masked performances, these characters allowed for immediate audience recognition and engagement, contributing to the enduring impact of Commedia on the comedic genre.