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{{Short description|Commedia dell'arte character}} |
{{Short description|Commedia dell'arte character}} |
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{{About|the |
{{About|the commedia character|Stravinsky's 1920 ballet|Pulcinella (ballet)|the marine bird "Pucinella di mare"|Puffin}} |
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{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2024}} |
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⚫ | '''Pulcinella''' ({{IPA |
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⚫ | '''Pulcinella''' ({{IPA|it|pultʃiˈnɛlla|lang}}; {{langx|nap|Pulecenella}}) is a classical character that originated in [[commedia dell'arte]] of the 17th century and became a [[stock character]] in Neapolitan [[puppet]]ry. Pulcinella's versatility in status and attitude has captivated audiences worldwide and kept the character popular in countless forms since his introduction to commedia dell'arte by {{ILL|Silvio Fiorillo|it}} in 1620.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Commedia Dell'Arte: An Actor's Handbook|last=Rudlin|first=John|publisher=Routledge|year=1994|isbn=978-0415047708|location=London, England|pages=139}}</ref> |
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His visual appearance includes a [[Kyphosis|humpback]], a crooked nose, gangly legs, a [[Abdominal obesity|potbelly]], large cheeks, and a gigantic mouth. These traits were inherited from two |
His visual appearance includes a [[Kyphosis|humpback]], a crooked nose, gangly legs, a [[Abdominal obesity|potbelly]], large cheeks, and a gigantic mouth. These traits were inherited from two stock characters of the [[Atellan Farce]]. He typically wears a [[pointed hat]] (conical hat). When depicted as a member of the [[upper class]], Pulcinella is a cunning [[Theft|thief]] and schemer. When depicted as a member of the [[Domestic worker|servant]] class, Pulcinella is a [[Perversion|perverted]] [[Yokel|bumpkin]]. In either case, he is a [[Parvenu#Social climber|social climber]], striving to rise above his station in life. He is an [[Opportunism|opportunist]] who always sides with the winner in any situation and who fears no consequences. His main motivations are [[self-interest]] and [[self-preservation]], yet Pulcinella tends to rescue other characters from trouble. He is said to be every character's [[Salvation|savior]], despite acting as a [[Rebellion|rebel]] and a [[Juvenile delinquency|delinquent]]. |
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==Characteristics== |
==Characteristics== |
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Pulcinella embodies the Neapolitan |
Pulcinella embodies the Neapolitan [[plebeians]], the simplest man who occupies the bottom place on the [[Social stratification|social scale]], the man who, although aware of his problems, always manages to come out of them with a smile. |
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Pulcinella represents the soul of the people and its primitive instincts.{{Citation needed|date=August 2023|reason=This claim needs a reliable source}} He almost always appears in contradiction, so much so that he does not have fixed traits. He may be rich or poor, a bully or a coward—sometimes exhibiting both traits simultaneously. In addition to being a faithful servant, he adapts to all trades: baker, innkeeper, farmer, thief, seller of miraculous concoctions. |
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⚫ | His movements are broad and laborious, allowing him to aggressively emphasize his speech while simultaneously exhausting him. He will also get excited about something and move very quickly and deliberately, leaving him with no choice but to halt the action to catch his breath.<ref name=":4">{{Cite book|title=Playing Commedia|last=Grantham|first=Barry|publisher=Nick Hern Books|year=2000|isbn=978-1854594662|location=United Kingdom|pages=211}}</ref> He is to be thought of as a rebellious delinquent in the body of an old man.<ref name=":4" /> |
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⚫ | Another famous characteristic of his is that of never being able to shut up; from this trait comes the expression in several European languages "Pulcinella's secret" (i.e., an open secret that everyone knows).{{Citation needed|date=August 2023|reason=The claim regarding expressions in other languages needs reliable sources}} |
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Pulcinella represents a character who has acquired all the symbols and meanings of the popular and peasant world and has brought to all the scenes of Italian theaters, and beyond, a repertoire full of movements, gestures, acrobatics, typical dances and rituals of the Neapolitan gestural code. |
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In fact, they accompany him on the theater and carnival scenes: the broom, the horn, the cowbells, elements that for the Neapolitans have propitiatory and antidote value against the evil eye and the bad luck. |
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⚫ | Pulcinella has his origins in two stock characters of the ancient Roman [[Atellan Farce]], Maccus and Bucco. Maccus is described as being witty, sarcastic, rude, and cruel, while Bucco is a nervous thief who is as silly as he is full of himself.<ref>{{Cite book|title=The Italian Comedy|last=Duchartre|first=Pierre Louis|publisher=Dover Publications, Inc.|year=1966|isbn=978-0486216799|location=United States of America|pages=[https://archive.org/details/italiancomedyimp0000duch/page/208 208]|url=https://archive.org/details/italiancomedyimp0000duch/page/208}}</ref> This duality |
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Pulcinella's repertoire is full of movements, gestures, [[acrobatics]], and dances rooted in Neapolitan culture. Among his accessories are the broom, the horn, and the cowbells, all of which Neapolitans consider charms against the [[evil eye]] and bad luck.{{Citation needed|date=August 2023|reason=references to Neapolitan culture (dance, superstitions) need reliable sources}} |
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⚫ | Due to this duality of heredity, Pulcinella can be portrayed as either a servant or a master, depending on the |
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⚫ | Pulcinella has his origins in two stock characters of the ancient Roman [[Atellan Farce]], Maccus and Bucco. Maccus is described as being witty, sarcastic, rude, and cruel, while Bucco is a nervous thief who is as silly as he is full of himself.<ref>{{Cite book|title=The Italian Comedy|last=Duchartre|first=Pierre Louis|publisher=Dover Publications, Inc.|year=1966|isbn=978-0486216799|location=United States of America|pages=[https://archive.org/details/italiancomedyimp0000duch/page/208 208]|url=https://archive.org/details/italiancomedyimp0000duch/page/208}}</ref> This duality manifests itself in both how Pulcinella is shaped and the way he acts. |
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⚫ | [[File:Polichinelle, ca. 1680 - Nicolas Bonnart.jpg|thumb|upright|left|''Polichinelle'',<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://dac-collection.wesleyan.edu/Obj2832|title=DAC Collection Object Information - "Polichinelle"|last=Bonnart|first=Nicolas|date=1680–1690|website=DAC-Collection.Wesleyan.edu|publisher=Davison Art Center, Wesleyan University|access-date=December 9, 2016}}</ref> |
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Physically, the characteristics Pulcinella has inherited from his ancestors contribute to his top-heavy, bird-like shape. His [[Kyphosis|humpback]], his large, crooked nose, and his gangly legs come from Maccus, while his potbelly, large cheeks, and gigantic mouth come from Bucco.<ref>{{Cite book|title=The Italian Comedy|last=Duchartre|first=Pierre Louis|publisher=Dover Publications, Inc.|year=1966|isbn=978-0486216799|location=United States of America|pages=[https://archive.org/details/italiancomedyimp0000duch/page/209 209]|url=https://archive.org/details/italiancomedyimp0000duch/page/209}}</ref> |
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⚫ | Due to this duality of heredity, Pulcinella can be portrayed as either a servant or a master, depending on the scenario. "Upper" Pulcinella is more like Bucco, with a scheming nature, an aggressive sensuality, and great intelligence. "Lower" Pulcinella, however, favors Maccus, and is described by Pierre Louis Duchartre as being "a dull and coarse bumpkin".<ref>{{Cite book|title=The Italian Comedy|last=Duchartre|first=Pierre Louis|publisher=Dover Publications, Inc.|year=1966|isbn=978-0486216799|location=United States of America|pages=[https://archive.org/details/italiancomedyimp0000duch/page/212 212]|url=https://archive.org/details/italiancomedyimp0000duch/page/212}}</ref> This juxtaposition of proud, cunning thief from the upper class and loud, crass pervert from the servant class is key to understanding Pulcinella's behaviors. |
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⚫ | [[File:SAND Maurice Masques et bouffons 12.jpg|thumb|upright|Book illustration of ''Pulcinella in 1700''<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/illustration/pulcinella-in-1700-by-maurice-sand-engraving-stock-graphic/162277909|title=Pulcinella In 1700 By Maurice Sand 1860 Engraving Stock Illustration |website=Gety Images|access-date=2016-12-10}}</ref>(1860) by Maurice Sand, found in ''Masques et bouffons: comédie italienne |
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⚫ | Pulcinella is the ultimate self-preservationist, looking out for himself in most every situation, yet he still manages to sort out the affairs of everyone around him. [[Antonio Fava]], a world-renowned maskmaker and Maestro of |
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⚫ | [[File:Polichinelle, ca. 1680 - Nicolas Bonnart.jpg|thumb|upright|left|''Polichinelle'',<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://dac-collection.wesleyan.edu/Obj2832|title=DAC Collection Object Information - "Polichinelle"|last=Bonnart|first=Nicolas|date=1680–1690|website=DAC-Collection.Wesleyan.edu|publisher=Davison Art Center, Wesleyan University|access-date=December 9, 2016}}</ref> {{circa|1680}} by French artist Nicolas Bonnart. The first of a set of five [[etching]] entitled ''Five Characters from the Commedia dell'Arte''. Etching with hand coloring on laid paper.]] |
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⚫ | His movements are broad and laborious, allowing him to aggressively emphasize his speech |
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Pulcinella is a [[wikt:dualism|dualistic]] character: he either plays dumb, although he is very much aware of the situation, or he acts as though he is the most intelligent and competent one on the stage, despite being woefully ignorant.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Commedia dell'Arte: An Actor's Handbook|last=Rudlin|first=John|publisher=Routledge, an imprint of Taylor & Francis Group|year=1994|isbn=978-0415047708|location=London, England|pages=141}}</ref> He incessantly attempts to rise above his station while not intending to work for it. He is a social [[wikt:chameleon|chameleon]] who tries to get those below him to think highly of him but is quick to appease the powerful. |
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⚫ | Pulcinella's closing [[couplet]] translates to: "I am Prince of everything, Lord of land and main. Except for my public whose faithful servant I remain."<ref>{{Cite book|title=The Commedia dell'Arte|last=Oreglia|first=Giacomo|publisher=Hill and Wang|year=1968|isbn=978-0809005451|location=New York|pages=94|translator-last=Edwards|translator-first=Lovett F.}}</ref> However, because his status is often that of a servant, he has no real investment in preserving the [[Political sociology|socio-political]] world of his master.<ref>{{Cite book|title=The Routledge Companion to Commedia Dell'Arte|last=McGhee|first=Scott|publisher=Routledge, an imprint of the Taylor & Frances Group|year=2015|isbn=978-0415745062|editor-last=Chaffee|editor-first=Judith|location=New York, New York|pages=15|editor-last2=Crick|editor-first2=Oliver}}</ref> He is always on the side of the winner, although he often does not decide this until after they have won. No matter his initial intent, Pulcinella always manages to win. If something ends poorly, another thing is successful. If he is put out in one sense, he is rewarded in another.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.antoniofava.com/masks|title=Pulcinella Character and Mask Description|last=Fava|first=Antonio|date=2013|website=AntonioFava.com|publisher=Antonio Fava|access-date=December 9, 2016}}</ref> This often accidental triumph is his norm. |
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Another important characteristic of Pulcinella is that he fears nothing. He does not worry about consequences as he will be victorious no matter what. It is said that he is so wonderful to watch because he does what audience members would do were they not afraid of the consequences.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Playing Commedia|last=Grantham|first=Barry|publisher=Nick Hern Books|year=2000|isbn=978-1854594662|location=United Kingdom|pages=208}}</ref> |
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⚫ | [[File:SAND Maurice Masques et bouffons 12.jpg|thumb|upright|Book illustration of ''Pulcinella in 1700''<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/illustration/pulcinella-in-1700-by-maurice-sand-engraving-stock-graphic/162277909|title=Pulcinella In 1700 By Maurice Sand 1860 Engraving Stock Illustration |website=Gety Images|access-date=2016-12-10}}</ref> (1860) by Maurice Sand, found in ''Masques et bouffons: comédie italienne'']] |
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⚫ | Pulcinella is the ultimate self-preservationist, looking out for himself in most every situation, yet he still manages to sort out the affairs of everyone around him. [[Antonio Fava]], a world-renowned maskmaker and Maestro of [[commedia dell'arte]], is particularly fond of the character in both performance and study due to Pulcinella's influence and continuity throughout history. Fava explains that, "Pulcinella, a man without dignity, is nevertheless indispensable to us all: without [him] ... none of his countless 'bosses' could ever escape from the awkward tangle of troubles in which they find themselves. Pulcinella is everyone's saviour, saved by no one."<ref name=":1">{{Cite book|last=Fava|first=Antonio|title=The Routledge Companion to Commedia dell'Arte|date=December 5, 2014|publisher=Routledge, an imprint of Taylor & Francis Group|isbn=978-0415745062|editor-last=Chaffee|editor-first=Judith|edition=1st|location=New York, New York|pages=111|translator-last=Perlman|translator-first=Mace|editor-last2=Crick|editor-first2=Oliver}}</ref> This accidental helpfulness is key to his success. He goes out of his way to avoid responsibility, yet always ends up with more of it than he bargained for. |
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== Mask == |
== Mask == |
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Traditionally made of leather, Pulcinella's mask is either black or dark brown, to imply weathering from the sun. His nose varies, but is always the most prominent feature of the mask |
Traditionally made of leather, Pulcinella's mask is either black or dark brown, to imply weathering from the sun. His nose varies in shape, but it is always the most prominent feature of the mask. It can be long and curved, hooking over the mouth, or it can be shorter with a more bulbous bridge. Either way, the nose is designed to resemble a bird's beak. There is often a wart somewhere on the mask, typically on the forehead or nose.<ref name=":2">{{Cite book|title=Playing Commedia|last=Grantham|first=Barry|publisher=Nick Hern Books|date=January 9, 2000|isbn=978-1854594662|location=United Kingdom|pages=209}}</ref> Furrowed eyebrows and deep wrinkles are also important, although there is room for artistic interpretation. He can have a protruding brow ridge, knitted brows, a furrowed brow, or simply raised eyebrows, as long as they are prominent enough to match the exaggerated style of commedia dell'arte masks. The mask used to feature a bushy black mustache or beard, but this was mostly abandoned after the 17th century.<ref name=":3">{{Cite book|title=Commedia Dell'Arte: An Actor's Handbook|last=Rudlin|first=John|publisher=Routledge, and imprint of Taylor & Francis Group|year=1994|isbn=978-0415047708|location=London, England|pages=140}}</ref> |
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== Costume and props == |
== Costume and props == |
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[[File:Pulcinella.jpg|thumb|140px|Pulcinella costume]] |
[[File:Pulcinella.jpg|thumb|140px|Pulcinella costume]] |
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Pulcinella is most often portrayed in a white ensemble consisting of wide-legged trousers and a long-sleeved, loose-fitting blouse with buttons down the front. The outfit is completed by a belt that cinches below the waist, giving Pulcinella a place to hold props while emphasizing his pot belly.<ref name=":2" /> A white hat is always worn, typically either a skull cap, a hat with turn-up brim,<ref>{{Cite book|title= The Italian Comedy|last=Duchartre|first=Pierre Louis|publisher=Dover Publications, Inc.|year= 1966|isbn= 978-0486216799|location=New York, New York|pages=[https://archive.org/details/italiancomedyimp0000duch/page/220 220]|url= https://archive.org/details/italiancomedyimp0000duch/page/220}}</ref> a soft [[Pointed hat|conical hat]] whose point lies down, or a [[c:File:Amorous_Punchinello_(Pulcinella_innamorato).jpg| rigid sugar-loaf hat]]. The sugar-loaf hat gained popularity in the late 17th and early 18th centuries.<ref>{{Cite book|title= Playing Commedia|last= Grantham|first= Barry|publisher= Nick Hern Books|date= October 27, 2000|isbn=978-1854594662|location=United Kingdom|pages=210}}</ref> |
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Pulcinella has two main props |
Pulcinella has two main props. The first is a cudgel, a relatively short stick used primarily as a weapon. He calls this his "staff of credit". His other prop is a coin purse, traditionally attached to his belt so as to stay close to his body.<ref name=":3" /> |
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== Etymology == |
== Etymology == |
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A plausible theory derives his name from the [[diminutive]] (or combination with {{lang|it|pollastrello}} |
A plausible theory derives his name from the [[diminutive]] (or combination with {{lang|it|pollastrello}} 'rooster')<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.antoniofava.com/masks|title=I Servi (The Servants) – Pulcinella|last=Fava|first=Antonio|date=2013|website=AntonioFava.com|publisher=Antonio Fava|access-date=December 9, 2016}}</ref>) of Italian {{lang|it|pulcino}} ('chick'), on account of his long beaklike nose, as theorized by music historian [[Francesco Saverio Quadrio]], or due to the squeaky nasal voice and "timorous impotence" in its demeanor, according to [[Giuseppe Marc'Antonio Baretti|Giuseppe (Joseph) Baretti]].<ref name="eb1011">{{cite EB1911|last=Wheeler|first=R. Mortimer|wstitle=Punch (puppet)|title=Punch|volume=22|pages=648–649}}</ref> |
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According to another version, ''Pulcinella'' derived from the name of Puccio d'Aniello, a [[peasant]] of [[Acerra]], who was portrayed in a famous picture attributed to [[Annibale Carracci]], and was characterized by a long nose.<ref name="eb1011" /> It has also been suggested that the figure is a caricature of a sufferer of [[acromegaly]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/derbyshire/5315432.stm|title=UK | England | Derbyshire | Mr Punch's 'bad mood' syndrome|date=2006-09-05|publisher=BBC News|access-date=2010-05-25}}</ref> |
According to another version, ''Pulcinella'' derived from the name of Puccio d'Aniello, a [[peasant]] of [[Acerra]], who was portrayed in a famous picture attributed to [[Annibale Carracci]], and was characterized by a long nose.<ref name="eb1011" /> It has also been suggested that the figure is a caricature of a sufferer of [[acromegaly]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/derbyshire/5315432.stm|title=UK | England | Derbyshire | Mr Punch's 'bad mood' syndrome|date=2006-09-05|publisher=BBC News|access-date=2010-05-25}}</ref> |
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== Variants == |
== Variants == |
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[[File:Vsevolozhskys design for Nutcracker.jpg|thumb|left|Mother Ginger and her Polichinelles in ''[[The Nutcracker]]'']] |
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Many regional variants of Pulcinella were developed as the character diffused across Europe. From its east to west coasts, Europeans strongly identified with the tired, witty "everyman" that Pulcinella represented. In |
Many regional variants of Pulcinella were developed as the character diffused across Europe. From its east to west coasts, Europeans strongly identified with the tired, witty "everyman" that Pulcinella represented. In later adaptations, Pulcinella was often portrayed as a puppet, as [[commedia dell'arte]]-style theatre did not continue to be popular throughout all of the continent over time. This puppet evolved into "Mr. Punch" in England. As half of [[Punch and Judy]], he is recognized as one of the most important British icons in history.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=http://www.vam.ac.uk/content/articles/t/thats-the-way-to-do-it!-a-history-of-punch-and-judy/|title=That's the Way to Do it! A History of Punch and Judy|date=2016|website=VAM.ac.uk|publisher=Victoria and Albert Museum|access-date=December 9, 2016}}</ref> |
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The first recorded show to have involved the Punch-style marionette was performed in England in May 1662, outside of London in [[Covent Garden]], by Bologna-born puppeteer Pietro Gimonde, also known as Signor Bologna.<ref name=":0" /> This marionette was named Punchinello, later |
The first recorded show to have involved the Punch-style marionette was performed in England in May 1662, outside of London in [[Covent Garden]], by Bologna-born puppeteer Pietro Gimonde, also known as Signor Bologna.<ref name=":0" /> This marionette was named Punchinello, later shortened to Punch, and finally becoming wholly British with his transformation into Mr. Punch. The British Punch is far more childlike and violent than Pulcinella but is renowned for being just as funny.<ref>{{Cite book|title=The Routledge Companion to Commedia dell'Arte|last=Fava|first=Antonio|publisher=Routledge, an imprint of Tayor & Francis Group|date=December 5, 2014|isbn=978-0415745062|editor-last=Chaffee|editor-first=Judith|location=New York, New York|pages=109|translator-last=Perlman|translator-first=Mace|editor-last2=Crick|editor-first2=Oliver}}</ref> Always seen with [[Singlestick|cudgel]] in hand, Punch is more menacing than his Italian counterpart. In many performances, he murders his wife and child, as well as the Devil. In 1851, [[Henry Mayhew]] wrote of one performer who described the character's enduring appeal: "Like the rest of the world, he has got bad morals, but very few of them."<ref>Gatrell, Vic. ''City of Laughter: Sex and Satire in Eighteenth Century London,'' Walker & Company, 2006, pg. 200-201</ref> |
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In Germany, this kind of Pulcinella-based puppet character came to be known as ''[[Kasperle|Kasper]]''. Kasper is a cunning servant who solves the problems of all the masters he serves.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.objectlessons.org/childhood-and-games-world/kasperletheatre-puppets-germany/s82/a240/|title=Kasperletheatre Puppets, Germany|website=ObjectLessons.org|publisher=Islington Education Library Service|access-date=December 9, 2016}}</ref> |
In Germany, this kind of Pulcinella-based puppet character came to be known as ''[[Kasperle|Kasper]]''. Kasper is a cunning servant who solves the problems of all the masters he serves.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.objectlessons.org/childhood-and-games-world/kasperletheatre-puppets-germany/s82/a240/|title=Kasperletheatre Puppets, Germany|website=ObjectLessons.org|publisher=Islington Education Library Service|access-date=December 9, 2016}}</ref> He was less extreme than Mr. Punch, but offered the same kind of slapstick puppetry that audiences loved. This character became wildly popular throughout Europe. In the Netherlands, he is known as ''Jan Klaassen''. In Denmark he is ''Mester Jakel''. In Romania, he is ''Vasilache''. In Hungary he is [[:hu:Paprika Jancsi|Paprika Jancsi]] (or Paprikajancsi) and in the 20th century [[:hu:Vitéz László|Vitéz László]]. In France he remained ''Polichinelle''.<ref name="britannica"> {{cite web |url=https://www.britannica.com/topic/Punch-puppet-character |title=Punch puppet character }}</ref> ''Polichinelles'' were featured as the children of Mother Ginger ({{lang|fr|la mère Gigogne}}) in ''[[The Nutcracker]]'' by [[Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky|Tchaikovsky]]. |
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Russian composer [[Igor Stravinsky]] was commissioned to compose two different ballets for the [[Ballets Russes]] that were inspired by variations of this character. Stravinsky's ballets were entitled [[Petrushka (ballet)|''Petrushka'']] (1911), based on Russian 19th-century puppetry traditions celebrated at [[Shrovetide]], and [[Pulcinella (ballet)|''Pulcinella'']] (1920), based on 17th-century Italian music (thought to be by [[Pergolesi]]) associated with a commedia dell'arte version. |
Russian composer [[Igor Stravinsky]] was commissioned to compose two different ballets for the [[Ballets Russes]] that were inspired by variations of this character. Stravinsky's ballets were entitled [[Petrushka (ballet)|''Petrushka'']] (1911), based on Russian 19th-century puppetry traditions celebrated at [[Shrovetide]], and [[Pulcinella (ballet)|''Pulcinella'']] (1920), based on 17th-century Italian music (thought to be by [[Pergolesi]]) associated with a commedia dell'arte version. |
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==Miscellanea== |
==Miscellanea== |
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* Pulcinella Awards mascot – Pulcinella is the [[mascot]] of the [[Pulcinella |
* Pulcinella Awards mascot – Pulcinella is the [[mascot]] of the [[Cartoons on the Bay|Pulcinella Awards]], annual awards for excellence in [[animation]], presented at the Cartoons on the Bay Festival in [[Positano]], Italy. |
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* In the |
* In the video game ''[[Super Mario RPG|Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars]]'', one of the bosses is called Punchinello. His name is derived from Pulcinella. |
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* In the Chinese video game ''[[Genshin Impact]]'', a Fatui harbinger is called Pulcinella. |
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* Open secret – |
* Open secret – in various European languages, including Italian,<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/italian-english/pulcinella |title=pulcinella translation from Collins Unabridged Italian-English dictionary |publisher=www.collinsdictionary.com |access-date= 2012-10-30}}</ref> French,<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/french-english/polichinelle |title= polichinelle translation from Collins French-English dictionary |publisher= www.collinsdictionary.com |access-date=2012-10-30}}</ref> Spanish,<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/spanish-english/secreto-de-polichinela |title=secreto de Polichinela translation from Collins Unabridged Spanish-English dictionary |publisher= www.collinsdictionary.com |access-date=2012-10-30}}</ref> Polish,<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.slownik-online.pl/kopalinski/A7C15CCA00F8A8DAC125658000105730.php |title= poliszynel, Słownik Wyrazów Obcych i zwrotów obcojęzycznych Władysława Kopalinskiego |publisher=www.slownik-online.pl |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070127051847/http://slownik-online.pl/kopalinski/A7C15CCA00F8A8DAC125658000105730.php |archive-date= 27 January 2007 |access-date= 1 September 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> Russian,<ref>{{cite web|url= http://new.gramota.ru/spravka/phrases?alpha=С|title= Справочник по фразеологии |publisher= gramota.ru |access-date=2017-04-15}}</ref> and Portuguese,<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.ciberduvidas.com/pergunta.php?id=15684|title= Polichinelo|publisher=www.ciberduvidas.com |access-date=2015-03-20}}</ref> a "Pulcinella's secret" or a "Polichinelo's secret" is an [[open secret]]. The Italian psychoanalyst and philosopher Emilio Mordini has discussed Pulcinella secrets,<ref>{{cite journal|title= Pulcinella Secrets|journal= Bioethics|volume= 25|issue= 9|pages= ii-iii |date= 2011|doi= 10.1111/j.1467-8519.2011.01938.x|pmid= 21988143|last1 = Mordini|first1 = Emilio|doi-access= free}}</ref> saying that they help people to retain their sanity<ref>{{cite book|title= Digital Enlightenment Now!: How the Internet is making us better and smarter and in the process changing just about everything around us!|last=Cole|first=Tim|publisher=BoD – Books on Demand|year= 2015|isbn= 9783738697667 |location=Norderstedt, DE|pages=280}}</ref> in contexts where secrets are impossible (for example: in small villages, or in today's online world). Mordini argues that Pulcinella secrets "are not really secret in the sense that they are unknown or unknowable, but because they are labeled as secret".<ref>{{cite web|url= http://web.archive.org/web/20160302093929/https://digitalenlightenmentforum.com/2015/02/17/pulchinella-revisited/|title= Pulcinella revisited|date= 2015|access-date= 2024-04-19}}</ref> |
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==See also== |
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* [[Commedia dell'arte]] |
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==References== |
==References== |
Latest revision as of 04:16, 21 November 2024
Pulcinella (Italian: [pultʃiˈnɛlla]; Neapolitan: Pulecenella) is a classical character that originated in commedia dell'arte of the 17th century and became a stock character in Neapolitan puppetry. Pulcinella's versatility in status and attitude has captivated audiences worldwide and kept the character popular in countless forms since his introduction to commedia dell'arte by Silvio Fiorillo in 1620.[1]
His visual appearance includes a humpback, a crooked nose, gangly legs, a potbelly, large cheeks, and a gigantic mouth. These traits were inherited from two stock characters of the Atellan Farce. He typically wears a pointed hat (conical hat). When depicted as a member of the upper class, Pulcinella is a cunning thief and schemer. When depicted as a member of the servant class, Pulcinella is a perverted bumpkin. In either case, he is a social climber, striving to rise above his station in life. He is an opportunist who always sides with the winner in any situation and who fears no consequences. His main motivations are self-interest and self-preservation, yet Pulcinella tends to rescue other characters from trouble. He is said to be every character's savior, despite acting as a rebel and a delinquent.
Characteristics
[edit]Pulcinella embodies the Neapolitan plebeians, the simplest man who occupies the bottom place on the social scale, the man who, although aware of his problems, always manages to come out of them with a smile.
Pulcinella represents the soul of the people and its primitive instincts.[citation needed] He almost always appears in contradiction, so much so that he does not have fixed traits. He may be rich or poor, a bully or a coward—sometimes exhibiting both traits simultaneously. In addition to being a faithful servant, he adapts to all trades: baker, innkeeper, farmer, thief, seller of miraculous concoctions.
His movements are broad and laborious, allowing him to aggressively emphasize his speech while simultaneously exhausting him. He will also get excited about something and move very quickly and deliberately, leaving him with no choice but to halt the action to catch his breath.[2] He is to be thought of as a rebellious delinquent in the body of an old man.[2]
The quality that best distinguishes Pulcinella is his cunning, with which he manages to solve the disparate problems that arise in front of him—always, however, in favor of the weakest at the expense of the powerful.
Another famous characteristic of his is that of never being able to shut up; from this trait comes the expression in several European languages "Pulcinella's secret" (i.e., an open secret that everyone knows).[citation needed]
Pulcinella's repertoire is full of movements, gestures, acrobatics, and dances rooted in Neapolitan culture. Among his accessories are the broom, the horn, and the cowbells, all of which Neapolitans consider charms against the evil eye and bad luck.[citation needed]
Pulcinella has his origins in two stock characters of the ancient Roman Atellan Farce, Maccus and Bucco. Maccus is described as being witty, sarcastic, rude, and cruel, while Bucco is a nervous thief who is as silly as he is full of himself.[3] This duality manifests itself in both how Pulcinella is shaped and the way he acts.
Physically, the characteristics Pulcinella has inherited from his ancestors contribute to his top-heavy, bird-like shape. His humpback, his large, crooked nose, and his gangly legs come from Maccus, while his potbelly, large cheeks, and gigantic mouth come from Bucco.[4]
Due to this duality of heredity, Pulcinella can be portrayed as either a servant or a master, depending on the scenario. "Upper" Pulcinella is more like Bucco, with a scheming nature, an aggressive sensuality, and great intelligence. "Lower" Pulcinella, however, favors Maccus, and is described by Pierre Louis Duchartre as being "a dull and coarse bumpkin".[5] This juxtaposition of proud, cunning thief from the upper class and loud, crass pervert from the servant class is key to understanding Pulcinella's behaviors.
Pulcinella is a dualistic character: he either plays dumb, although he is very much aware of the situation, or he acts as though he is the most intelligent and competent one on the stage, despite being woefully ignorant.[7] He incessantly attempts to rise above his station while not intending to work for it. He is a social chameleon who tries to get those below him to think highly of him but is quick to appease the powerful.
Pulcinella's closing couplet translates to: "I am Prince of everything, Lord of land and main. Except for my public whose faithful servant I remain."[8] However, because his status is often that of a servant, he has no real investment in preserving the socio-political world of his master.[9] He is always on the side of the winner, although he often does not decide this until after they have won. No matter his initial intent, Pulcinella always manages to win. If something ends poorly, another thing is successful. If he is put out in one sense, he is rewarded in another.[10] This often accidental triumph is his norm.
Another important characteristic of Pulcinella is that he fears nothing. He does not worry about consequences as he will be victorious no matter what. It is said that he is so wonderful to watch because he does what audience members would do were they not afraid of the consequences.[11]
Pulcinella is the ultimate self-preservationist, looking out for himself in most every situation, yet he still manages to sort out the affairs of everyone around him. Antonio Fava, a world-renowned maskmaker and Maestro of commedia dell'arte, is particularly fond of the character in both performance and study due to Pulcinella's influence and continuity throughout history. Fava explains that, "Pulcinella, a man without dignity, is nevertheless indispensable to us all: without [him] ... none of his countless 'bosses' could ever escape from the awkward tangle of troubles in which they find themselves. Pulcinella is everyone's saviour, saved by no one."[13] This accidental helpfulness is key to his success. He goes out of his way to avoid responsibility, yet always ends up with more of it than he bargained for.
Mask
[edit]Traditionally made of leather, Pulcinella's mask is either black or dark brown, to imply weathering from the sun. His nose varies in shape, but it is always the most prominent feature of the mask. It can be long and curved, hooking over the mouth, or it can be shorter with a more bulbous bridge. Either way, the nose is designed to resemble a bird's beak. There is often a wart somewhere on the mask, typically on the forehead or nose.[14] Furrowed eyebrows and deep wrinkles are also important, although there is room for artistic interpretation. He can have a protruding brow ridge, knitted brows, a furrowed brow, or simply raised eyebrows, as long as they are prominent enough to match the exaggerated style of commedia dell'arte masks. The mask used to feature a bushy black mustache or beard, but this was mostly abandoned after the 17th century.[15]
Costume and props
[edit]Pulcinella is most often portrayed in a white ensemble consisting of wide-legged trousers and a long-sleeved, loose-fitting blouse with buttons down the front. The outfit is completed by a belt that cinches below the waist, giving Pulcinella a place to hold props while emphasizing his pot belly.[14] A white hat is always worn, typically either a skull cap, a hat with turn-up brim,[16] a soft conical hat whose point lies down, or a rigid sugar-loaf hat. The sugar-loaf hat gained popularity in the late 17th and early 18th centuries.[17]
Pulcinella has two main props. The first is a cudgel, a relatively short stick used primarily as a weapon. He calls this his "staff of credit". His other prop is a coin purse, traditionally attached to his belt so as to stay close to his body.[15]
Etymology
[edit]A plausible theory derives his name from the diminutive (or combination with pollastrello 'rooster')[18]) of Italian pulcino ('chick'), on account of his long beaklike nose, as theorized by music historian Francesco Saverio Quadrio, or due to the squeaky nasal voice and "timorous impotence" in its demeanor, according to Giuseppe (Joseph) Baretti.[19]
According to another version, Pulcinella derived from the name of Puccio d'Aniello, a peasant of Acerra, who was portrayed in a famous picture attributed to Annibale Carracci, and was characterized by a long nose.[19] It has also been suggested that the figure is a caricature of a sufferer of acromegaly.[20]
Variants
[edit]Many regional variants of Pulcinella were developed as the character diffused across Europe. From its east to west coasts, Europeans strongly identified with the tired, witty "everyman" that Pulcinella represented. In later adaptations, Pulcinella was often portrayed as a puppet, as commedia dell'arte-style theatre did not continue to be popular throughout all of the continent over time. This puppet evolved into "Mr. Punch" in England. As half of Punch and Judy, he is recognized as one of the most important British icons in history.[21]
The first recorded show to have involved the Punch-style marionette was performed in England in May 1662, outside of London in Covent Garden, by Bologna-born puppeteer Pietro Gimonde, also known as Signor Bologna.[21] This marionette was named Punchinello, later shortened to Punch, and finally becoming wholly British with his transformation into Mr. Punch. The British Punch is far more childlike and violent than Pulcinella but is renowned for being just as funny.[22] Always seen with cudgel in hand, Punch is more menacing than his Italian counterpart. In many performances, he murders his wife and child, as well as the Devil. In 1851, Henry Mayhew wrote of one performer who described the character's enduring appeal: "Like the rest of the world, he has got bad morals, but very few of them."[23]
In Germany, this kind of Pulcinella-based puppet character came to be known as Kasper. Kasper is a cunning servant who solves the problems of all the masters he serves.[24] He was less extreme than Mr. Punch, but offered the same kind of slapstick puppetry that audiences loved. This character became wildly popular throughout Europe. In the Netherlands, he is known as Jan Klaassen. In Denmark he is Mester Jakel. In Romania, he is Vasilache. In Hungary he is Paprika Jancsi (or Paprikajancsi) and in the 20th century Vitéz László. In France he remained Polichinelle.[25] Polichinelles were featured as the children of Mother Ginger (la mère Gigogne) in The Nutcracker by Tchaikovsky.
Russian composer Igor Stravinsky was commissioned to compose two different ballets for the Ballets Russes that were inspired by variations of this character. Stravinsky's ballets were entitled Petrushka (1911), based on Russian 19th-century puppetry traditions celebrated at Shrovetide, and Pulcinella (1920), based on 17th-century Italian music (thought to be by Pergolesi) associated with a commedia dell'arte version.
Miscellanea
[edit]- Pulcinella Awards mascot – Pulcinella is the mascot of the Pulcinella Awards, annual awards for excellence in animation, presented at the Cartoons on the Bay Festival in Positano, Italy.
- In the video game Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars, one of the bosses is called Punchinello. His name is derived from Pulcinella.
- In the Chinese video game Genshin Impact, a Fatui harbinger is called Pulcinella.
- Open secret – in various European languages, including Italian,[26] French,[27] Spanish,[28] Polish,[29] Russian,[30] and Portuguese,[31] a "Pulcinella's secret" or a "Polichinelo's secret" is an open secret. The Italian psychoanalyst and philosopher Emilio Mordini has discussed Pulcinella secrets,[32] saying that they help people to retain their sanity[33] in contexts where secrets are impossible (for example: in small villages, or in today's online world). Mordini argues that Pulcinella secrets "are not really secret in the sense that they are unknown or unknowable, but because they are labeled as secret".[34]
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ Rudlin, John (1994). Commedia Dell'Arte: An Actor's Handbook. London, England: Routledge. p. 139. ISBN 978-0415047708.
- ^ a b Grantham, Barry (2000). Playing Commedia. United Kingdom: Nick Hern Books. p. 211. ISBN 978-1854594662.
- ^ Duchartre, Pierre Louis (1966). The Italian Comedy. United States of America: Dover Publications, Inc. pp. 208. ISBN 978-0486216799.
- ^ Duchartre, Pierre Louis (1966). The Italian Comedy. United States of America: Dover Publications, Inc. pp. 209. ISBN 978-0486216799.
- ^ Duchartre, Pierre Louis (1966). The Italian Comedy. United States of America: Dover Publications, Inc. pp. 212. ISBN 978-0486216799.
- ^ Bonnart, Nicolas (1680–1690). "DAC Collection Object Information - "Polichinelle"". DAC-Collection.Wesleyan.edu. Davison Art Center, Wesleyan University. Retrieved 9 December 2016.
- ^ Rudlin, John (1994). Commedia dell'Arte: An Actor's Handbook. London, England: Routledge, an imprint of Taylor & Francis Group. p. 141. ISBN 978-0415047708.
- ^ Oreglia, Giacomo (1968). The Commedia dell'Arte. Translated by Edwards, Lovett F. New York: Hill and Wang. p. 94. ISBN 978-0809005451.
- ^ McGhee, Scott (2015). Chaffee, Judith; Crick, Oliver (eds.). The Routledge Companion to Commedia Dell'Arte. New York, New York: Routledge, an imprint of the Taylor & Frances Group. p. 15. ISBN 978-0415745062.
- ^ Fava, Antonio (2013). "Pulcinella Character and Mask Description". AntonioFava.com. Antonio Fava. Retrieved 9 December 2016.
- ^ Grantham, Barry (2000). Playing Commedia. United Kingdom: Nick Hern Books. p. 208. ISBN 978-1854594662.
- ^ "Pulcinella In 1700 By Maurice Sand 1860 Engraving Stock Illustration". Gety Images. Retrieved 10 December 2016.
- ^ Fava, Antonio (5 December 2014). Chaffee, Judith; Crick, Oliver (eds.). The Routledge Companion to Commedia dell'Arte. Translated by Perlman, Mace (1st ed.). New York, New York: Routledge, an imprint of Taylor & Francis Group. p. 111. ISBN 978-0415745062.
- ^ a b Grantham, Barry (9 January 2000). Playing Commedia. United Kingdom: Nick Hern Books. p. 209. ISBN 978-1854594662.
- ^ a b Rudlin, John (1994). Commedia Dell'Arte: An Actor's Handbook. London, England: Routledge, and imprint of Taylor & Francis Group. p. 140. ISBN 978-0415047708.
- ^ Duchartre, Pierre Louis (1966). The Italian Comedy. New York, New York: Dover Publications, Inc. pp. 220. ISBN 978-0486216799.
- ^ Grantham, Barry (27 October 2000). Playing Commedia. United Kingdom: Nick Hern Books. p. 210. ISBN 978-1854594662.
- ^ Fava, Antonio (2013). "I Servi (The Servants) – Pulcinella". AntonioFava.com. Antonio Fava. Retrieved 9 December 2016.
- ^ a b Wheeler, R. Mortimer (1911). Chisholm, Hugh (ed.). Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 22 (11th ed.). Cambridge University Press. pp. 648–649. . In
- ^ "UK | England | Derbyshire | Mr Punch's 'bad mood' syndrome". BBC News. 5 September 2006. Retrieved 25 May 2010.
- ^ a b "That's the Way to Do it! A History of Punch and Judy". VAM.ac.uk. Victoria and Albert Museum. 2016. Retrieved 9 December 2016.
- ^ Fava, Antonio (5 December 2014). Chaffee, Judith; Crick, Oliver (eds.). The Routledge Companion to Commedia dell'Arte. Translated by Perlman, Mace. New York, New York: Routledge, an imprint of Tayor & Francis Group. p. 109. ISBN 978-0415745062.
- ^ Gatrell, Vic. City of Laughter: Sex and Satire in Eighteenth Century London, Walker & Company, 2006, pg. 200-201
- ^ "Kasperletheatre Puppets, Germany". ObjectLessons.org. Islington Education Library Service. Retrieved 9 December 2016.
- ^ "Punch puppet character".
- ^ "pulcinella translation from Collins Unabridged Italian-English dictionary". www.collinsdictionary.com. Retrieved 30 October 2012.
- ^ "polichinelle translation from Collins French-English dictionary". www.collinsdictionary.com. Retrieved 30 October 2012.
- ^ "secreto de Polichinela translation from Collins Unabridged Spanish-English dictionary". www.collinsdictionary.com. Retrieved 30 October 2012.
- ^ "poliszynel, Słownik Wyrazów Obcych i zwrotów obcojęzycznych Władysława Kopalinskiego". www.slownik-online.pl. Archived from the original on 27 January 2007. Retrieved 1 September 2015.
- ^ "Справочник по фразеологии". gramota.ru. Retrieved 15 April 2017.
- ^ "Polichinelo". www.ciberduvidas.com. Retrieved 20 March 2015.
- ^ Mordini, Emilio (2011). "Pulcinella Secrets". Bioethics. 25 (9): ii–iii. doi:10.1111/j.1467-8519.2011.01938.x. PMID 21988143.
- ^ Cole, Tim (2015). Digital Enlightenment Now!: How the Internet is making us better and smarter and in the process changing just about everything around us!. Norderstedt, DE: BoD – Books on Demand. p. 280. ISBN 9783738697667.
- ^ "Pulcinella revisited". 2015. Retrieved 19 April 2024.
External links
[edit]- Media related to Pulcinella at Wikimedia Commons
- The Commedia dell'Arte Homepage