Module 10: Commedia Dell Arte

Question 1

What is humanism?

Answer 1

The idea that Earthly life isn’t just a vale of tears that might lead to Heaven if you’re good, but maybe worthy in and of itself. (This encouraged an upsurge in human achievement).

Question 2

Comedia Erudita (erudite comedies)

Answer 2

Based on classical models that you had to be well-read to know.

Question 3

What is lazzi?

Answer 3

Conveniently memorized lines actors could string together in an array of pre-arranged comedic bits. (A ‘lazzo’ is a gag, and there are several different types of lazzi, ex. hat lazzi, food lazzi, pee lazzi, etc.)