Commedia Archetypes

Question 1

Maniac

Answer 1

Commedia character traits: Arlecchino (English version: Harlequin), but with
added layer of intelligence not normally seen in this naïve character. He is one
of many ‘zanni’ character types in commedia: the lower class servants;
peasants.
* Animal: The Monkey; the Capuchin monkey; sometimes cat-like qualities.
* Archetype: The Trickster

Question 2

Inspector Bertozzo

Answer 2

• Commedia character traits: Magnifico, a younger version of Pantalone,
  before the physical demise.
• Animal: The Bald-headed eagle (with mange or hen-pecked).
• Archetype: The Misanthrope or The Grouch

Question 3

Inspector Pissani

Answer 3

• Commedia character traits: Capitano.
• Animal: The Peacock.
• Archetype: The Cowardly Narcissist.

Question 4

Constable(s)

Answer 4

• Commedia character traits: Zanni.
• Animal: The Chicken.
• Archetype: The Fool.

Question 5

Superintendent

Answer 5

• Commedia character traits: Brighella (a little Capitano too).
• Animal: The Staffie/Staffordshire Bull Terrier or The Silverback Gorilla
• Archetype: The Bully

Question 6

Felleti

Answer 6

Felleti is not based on commedia!!! She represents the investigator, the only sane character.