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Why are the symbol of the theater two masks, one smiling and the other sad?

 

Why are the symbol of the theater two masks, one smiling and the other sad? 

It has its origin in Greek mythology 

Professional Film Camera on Theater Set

Professional Film Camera on Theater Set


 

Theatre is often represented by a widespread symbol: two masks, one smiling and the other with a sad expression. This icon is recognisable practically all over the world, but what is its origin?

As explained by the Sala Ars de teatro, these two masks "are representative of comedy, drama and tragedy, and have names, the cheerful mask being called Talía, and the crying mask called Melpomene".

Thalia and Melpomene are two of the nine Muses of Greek mythology, who inspire the arts in general. Thalia is the Muse of comedy, "in charge of animating all kinds of events, mainly banquets, accompanying them with music and songs".

For her part, Melpomene was, according to Greek mythology, "a woman who had practically everything, that is, beauty, power, wealth, even the men she desired. However, and despite all this, Melpomene was not really happy, so it is said that she was the symbol of the drama of life".

The importance of masks in the history of theatre

In ancient Greek theatre, masks were essential to carry out the performance. Actors used these types of masks with exaggerated expressions to project the emotions of their characters to the audience, thus making it easier for the audience to understand the story, especially in large open-air theatres, where the gestures of the performers could not be seen in detail. These masks also allowed the actors to play different roles, thus quickly changing characters.

As Greek theatre began to influence Roman culture and, later, European traditions, the symbolism of the masks of comedy and tragedy endured, becoming synonymous with the performing arts throughout the Renaissance. Beginning in the 16th century, Italian commedia dell'arte began to use similar masks to depict typical characters in comic plays. To this day, these two masks are often used in logos of theatre companies and educational institutions related to the world of acting.

By- elmundo 

Photo- DP Singh Bhullar 

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