Exploring Commedia Dell'Arte and the Italian Renaissance

What was a significant cultural shift during the Renaissance compared to the Middle Ages?

• Prevalence of the plague

• Dominance of mystery plays

• Emphasis on humanism

• Focus on feudalism

Which playwright's works were rediscovered in 1429, influencing Italian theater?

• Seneca

• Plautus

• Aristotle

• Horace

What term describes the Italian comedies based on classical models that required a well-read audience?

• Tragicomedy

• Commedia erudita

• Mystery plays

• Commedia dell'arte

What architectural treatise, rediscovered in the 15th century, influenced Renaissance stagecraft?

• Poetics

• De Architectura

• The Mandrake

• The Republic

Which system allowed for the simultaneous shifting of all scenery in Italian theaters?

• Wing panels

• Chariot-and-pole

• Trap doors

• Single-point perspective

What does 'commedia dell'arte' translate to?

• Artful comedy

• Mystery play

• Erudite comedy

• Tragicomedy

Which stock character in commedia dell'arte is known for being a cowardly braggart?

• Arlecchino

• Pantalone

• Il Dottore

• Capitano

What is a 'lazzo' in commedia dell'arte?

• A comedic gag

• A type of mask

• A stage prop

• A musical interlude

Which commedia dell'arte character is known for wearing a diamond-patterned suit and carrying a wooden sword?

• Pulcinello

• Brighella

• Arlecchino

• Capitano

What modern term originated from Arlecchino's wooden sword in commedia dell'arte?

• Pratfall

• Slapstick

• Punchline

• Gag