Final answer:
A farce frequently uses stock characters that represent familiar archetypes, such as those found in Commedia dell'Arte, which contributes to the comedic impact of the play.
Step-by-step explanation:
Yes, a farce often makes use of stock characters. These characters represent specific archetypes or social types that are immediately recognizable to the audience, which can help generate hilarity and laughter in the comedic genre.
For example, the Commedia dell'Arte, which originated in Italy in the 16th century, is famous for its utilization of stock characters like the braggart soldier Capitano, the crafty servants known as zanni, the greedy old man Pantalone, and the foolish Dottore. Playwrights such as Shakespeare and Molière have been influenced by this tradition, and have incorporated such characters into their works, showcasing how stock characters create comedic essence through stereotypes and physicality.