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The Lover & The Captain

by David Claudon

• THE LOVER, at center, whether called Leandro, Flavio, Lelio, Ottavio, is always charming, dapper, and sometimes a bit ridiculous. His sole purpose in the script is to be in love. He must be young, good looking, courteous and gallant.

  The lover wore no mask. His costume is always in the style of the period.

• THE BRAGGART CAPTAIN, at right, has a tradition which can be traced back to Greek comedy. He is bold and swaggering. He struts around in a splendid uniform, pursues the ladies, and often runs from battle. Our example is Giangurgolo (Big Mouth). He is a thief, avoids the police, has a dangerous temper, and loves to bully people smaller than himself. He claims he is a nobleman but usually isn't.

  The mask of the Captain is flesh-colored with a huge menacing nose. He wears contemporary styles and changes in each period. Here he wears a scarlet doublet over a jerkin and breeches of light yellow with scarlet stripes.

History Harlequin & Mezzetino Pantaloon & The Doctor The Lover & The Captain The Inamorata Additional books and websites on commedia

©David Claudon, 1999-2003.