The 4 Commedia dell’arte Character Types: A Beginner’s Guide

Commedia dell’arte, a form of Italian theatre that originated in the 16th century, is known for its improvisational nature and stock characters. These characters, which are still used today in theatre and media, are divided into four main groups, each with its unique characteristics and purposes. In this article, we’ll explore the four commedia dell’arte character types and their subtypes.

Zanni

The Zanni are the most iconic and recognizable of the commedia dell’arte characters. They are servants or clowns who are typically portrayed as lazy, mischievous, and always hungry. They speak in dialects, and their costumes usually feature patches and raggedy clothes. The most famous Zanni characters include:

• Arlecchino (Harlequin): Known for his diamond-patterned costume, he is mischievous, agile, and in love with Colombina.
• Brighella: A cunning and sly character who often serves as a henchman to other characters.
• Scapino: A quick-witted and cunning servant who is always looking for a way to make a quick buck.
• Pulcinella: A hunchbacked character who is clumsy and loves to eat.

Vecchi

The Vecchi are wealthy, old men who are often portrayed as being miserly and stingy. They are typically portrayed as being greedy and possessive of their money, property, and women. The most famous Vecchi characters include:

• Pantalone: A greedy and lustful old man who is often the target of the other characters’ schemes.
• Il Dottore: A pompous and pretentious character who is known for his long-winded speeches and nonsensical medical advice.

Innamorati

The Innamorati are young, upper-class lovers who are typically portrayed as being romantic, naive, and idealistic. They are often the focus of the plot and are used as a foil for the other characters. The most famous Innamorati characters include:

• Flavio: A young and handsome lover who is typically paired with Isabella.
• Isabella: A beautiful and intelligent lover who is often pursued by other characters.

Il Capitano

Il Capitano is a self-styled captain who is typically portrayed as arrogant and boastful. He often boasts of his military prowess and is frequently challenged to prove it. The most famous Il Capitano character is Scaramuccia, or Scaramouche, who can also be played as a female character known as La Signora.

It’s important to note that each character type has subtypes and variations and that the characters are often adapted to suit the specific needs of a production. Additionally, the masks worn by some of the characters are an integral part of their personas and are often seen as an extension of the character.

The four commedia dell’arte character types are essential to the history and development of theatre. From the iconic Zanni to the romantic Innamorati, these characters have captured the imagination of audiences for centuries and continue to be relevant in modern theatre and media.