From Aristophane’s Lamach to Gumilev’s Bedouin: Evolution of the mask

Abstract

The article discusses the evolution of the mask of the «braggart warrior» in the history of European drama, from the classical period of antiquity to the twentieth century. Dramaturgy of Aristophanes is declared here as the starting point in the process of forming mask images. It is in the play of the ancient Greek comedian that the mask of the «braggart warrior» is created, initiating the very promising development of this mask in the future long history of theater and drama. It is in antiquity when the formula «braggart warrior» appears, defining the essence of the mask worn by the hero of T. M. Plautus as well as the title of his comedy. The boastful warrior makes his further journey through centuries and countries of different national traditions, developing his original features and acquiring new ones. The study of the fate of the «braggart warrior» image, which incorporates the experience of Italian, English, French, and Russian theaters, shows that this mask has become a mythological type.