Masque Definition
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