Clown
History of Clowning
Clowning has a rich and varied history that dates back to ancient civilizations. The earliest recorded clowns were found in the Fifth Dynasty of Egypt, around 2400 BC. These early clowns were often priests who performed humorous skits to entertain the pharaohs. Similarly, in ancient Greece, clowns were known as "bomolochoi," who were jesters and buffoons performing in theatrical plays.
During the Middle Ages, clowns became a staple of European courts, often referred to as jesters. These jesters were not only entertainers but also held a unique position where they could speak truth to power under the guise of humor. The role of the jester was formalized in many royal courts, and they were often given special privileges.
The modern image of the clown began to take shape in the 16th century with the Italian commedia dell'arte. This form of theater featured stock characters, including the zanni, who were comic servants. The zanni evolved into characters like Harlequin and Pierrot, who became iconic figures in European theater.
Types of Clowns
Clowns can be categorized into several types, each with distinct characteristics and roles. The most common types include:
Whiteface Clown
The whiteface clown is the most traditional type, characterized by a face covered entirely in white makeup with exaggerated features painted on. There are two subtypes: the classic whiteface and the grotesque whiteface. The classic whiteface is elegant and sophisticated, often playing the role of the leader in clown acts. The grotesque whiteface, on the other hand, has more exaggerated features and often plays a more foolish character.
Auguste Clown
The Auguste clown is characterized by a flesh-colored base makeup with exaggerated features, such as a red nose and large mouth. The Auguste is typically the bumbling, clumsy character who often finds themselves in humorous predicaments. Their costume is usually bright and oversized, adding to their comedic appearance.
Character Clown
Character clowns portray specific roles or professions, such as a policeman, baker, or tramp. The tramp clown, popularized in American circuses, is a notable example. This type of clown often has a sad or downtrodden appearance, with tattered clothing and a melancholic demeanor.
Clowning Techniques
Clowning involves a range of techniques that are essential for creating humor and engaging the audience. These techniques include:
Slapstick
Slapstick is a form of physical comedy that involves exaggerated, often violent actions, such as slaps, falls, and pratfalls. This technique is designed to elicit laughter through its absurdity and physicality.
Mime
Mime is the art of conveying a story or action through body movements and facial expressions without the use of words. Clowns often use mime to create humorous situations and communicate with the audience.
Improvisation
Improvisation is the ability to create spontaneous and unscripted performances. Clowns often rely on improvisation to interact with the audience and adapt to unexpected situations during their acts.
Props and Gags
Clowns frequently use props and gags to enhance their performances. Common props include oversized shoes, squirting flowers, and rubber chickens. Gags are pre-planned comedic routines that often involve the use of these props.
Psychological and Sociological Aspects
Clowning is not just about entertainment; it also has psychological and sociological dimensions. Clowns can evoke a wide range of emotions, from joy to fear, and their performances can serve various social functions.
Humor and Laughter
Humor and laughter are central to clowning. They have been shown to have numerous psychological benefits, including stress reduction and improved mood. Clowns use humor to create a sense of joy and amusement, which can have a positive impact on the audience's well-being.
Catharsis
Clowning can also serve as a form of catharsis, allowing the audience to release pent-up emotions. Through humor and absurdity, clowns can address serious topics and provide a safe space for emotional expression.
Social Commentary
Historically, clowns have used their performances to make social and political commentary. By using humor and satire, clowns can critique societal norms and behaviors, often highlighting issues that may be difficult to address directly.
Clowning in Modern Culture
Clowning continues to be a popular form of entertainment in modern culture, with clowns appearing in various contexts, from circuses to television and film.
Circus Clowns
Circus clowns are perhaps the most iconic representation of clowns in modern culture. They perform in traditional circuses, engaging in acts that involve physical comedy, juggling, and acrobatics. The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, often referred to as "The Greatest Show on Earth," has been instrumental in popularizing circus clowns.
Television and Film
Clowns have also made their mark in television and film. Characters like Bozo the Clown and Krusty the Clown from "The Simpsons" have become cultural icons. Additionally, clowns have been portrayed in various genres, from comedy to horror, with films like "It" featuring the terrifying Pennywise the Clown.
Clowning in Healthcare
Medical clowning is a specialized field where clowns work in healthcare settings to provide emotional support and entertainment to patients, particularly children. Organizations like Clowns Without Borders and The Big Apple Circus Clown Care Unit have been pioneers in this field, using humor to improve the well-being of patients.