Masque Definition

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                                    Masque 
Saintsbury defines Masque as "a dramatic entertainment in which plot, character and even to a great extent dialogue are subordinated on the one hand the spectacular illustration, and on the other to musical composition". It was a medley of music, and dancing woven around fairy tale, allegory or myth. 
Masque was of Italian origin. Later it reached England during 16th century. The English masque occurs in Hall's Chronicle for the year 1512. It was performed at the Kings court.
Features of Masque
1. The characters are deities of classical mythology, nymphs etc.
2. The number of characters is restricted to six.
3. The scenery and costumes are very eleborate.
4. A comic interlude is introduced called the anti-masque.
It's Decline 
Masque is a expensive form of entertainment. It is presented at court or during festive occasions. The marriage of Ferdinand and Miranda in Shakespeare's Tempest is a Masque. More attention is paid for dresses and costumes. Shirley's Triumph of peace was produced at the cost of 21,000 which created a great loss. The masque had a short period of glory.
Milton's Comus is a Masque. It was performed at Ludlow Castle in1634. It was a family entertainment.

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