Roman Pantomime :: essays research papers

In assessment of the origins and nature of mummer in old-fashivirtuosod Rome, one provide clearly dupe that the latter two factors are wide and varied. This is repayable to the collaborative nature of the art as a whole. With a goal examination of archaeological, textual and representational record one will realise a precise understanding of how the origins, nature and type of audience of the mimic are inter relate. One will additionally gain inisight into the widespread popularity of pantomimist despite a general dislike towards drama in ancient Rome.Before one can begin to consider the origins of Roman pantomime, one must have a clear understanding of the nature of pantomime. This is receivable to the fact that the nature of the art is in most cases, directly related to its origins. Once the nature of the art has been established, one will clearly see the connection between the latter and its origins. The term pantomime, which was, introduced by the Italian Greeks referr s to the actor. The mimer of everything. The pantomime was considered a solo performer who wore a mask, and explicit himself through dance, scarce did not sing. Rather, a musical group or chorus accompanied the pantomime. This type of performance is usually likened to a concert dance enactment with a mythical theme. The pantomime usually tended to appeal to high tastes with its mythical themes but as Grimal implies, could also be comic and erotic. In his discussion of pantomime, Lucian of Samosata (ca. 125 180) notes that the pantomime represents the orator and the composer of declamations. Lucian claims that the success of the pantomime depends upon his adept adadptation of language to event. It is considered that the pantomime had incredible versitality to show forth human character and passion in all their varieties. These qualities of the pantomime were praised by Lesbonax of Mytilene who called pantomimes manual philosophers. Futher evidence of the versatility of the pant omime in showing emotion and character can be seen in the words of TimocratesI know not what truth there may be in Platos analysis of the soul into the common chord elements of spirit, appetite and reason but each of the three is admirablyillustrated by the pantomime he shows us the angry man, he shows us the lover, and he shows us every passion under the control of reason The pantomime was not only skillful in portraying human character, but additionally in embracing many other skills into a wholeness embodiment.