⭐ In the context of Harlequin, a character originating in *commedia dell'arte*, the evolution of this figure ultimately influenced what literary archetype?
Harlequin's development within *commedia dell'arte*, specifically his agility, wit, and pursuit of love, laid the groundwork for the traits commonly associated with the romantic hero archetype in literature.
Ad spacer
⭐ Core Definition: Romantic hero
The Romantic hero is a literary archetype referring to a character that rejects established norms and conventions, has been rejected by society, and has themselves at the center of their own existence. The Romantic hero is often the protagonist in a literary work, and the primary focus is on the character's thoughts rather than their actions.
Harlequin (/ˈhɑːrləkwɪn/, Italian: Arlecchino, Italian:[arlekˈkiːno]; Lombard: Arlechin, Lombard:[arleˈki]) is the best-known of the comic servant characters (Zanni) from the Italian commedia dell'arte, associated with the city of Bergamo. The role is traditionally believed to have been introduced by the Italian actor-manager Zan Ganassa in the late 16th century, was definitively popularized by the Italian actor Tristano Martinelli in Paris in 1584–1585, and became a stock character after Martinelli's death in 1630.
The Harlequin is characterised by his checkered costume. His role is that of a light-hearted, nimble, and astute servant, often acting to thwart the plans of his master, and pursuing his own love interest, Columbine, with wit and resourcefulness, often competing with the sterner and melancholic Pierrot. He later develops into a prototype of the romantic hero. Harlequin inherits his physical agility and his trickster qualities, as well as his name, from a mischievous "devil" character in medieval Passion Plays.