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=Commedia dell'arte: a quick project for Grade 8 Drama 

So, why study Italian comedy of the 16th century? Good question! Will it help you graduate? No. Will you be able dazzle your friends with your obscure knowledge? Probably not. What you will be able to do is see how stereotypes have been used in comedy for a long time, then apply some of the tricks the Italians used to creating characters for today. You might even recognize some of the "designs" that were used in the late 1500's in today's fashion and entertainment (check out really stylized music videos). Check out the next page for a link to a great website about the characters and history of commedia dell'arte. While you're reading, try and imagine what this character would be like today. What would their name be? What exaggerated costume and mask would they wear today? Write some notes in an open office document about the character types you would create. Save the document!! =