Clown

Auguste clown reading a book upside-down

Joseph Grimaldi

LES ROSSYANN Weisscloun und dummer August

G.L. Fox the original Humpty Dumpty. LCCN2014635786

Joseph-Grimaldi-head

Clown refers to a comedic performer who adopts a unique style of physical comedy, characterized by exaggerated facial expressions, colorful costumes, and often, makeup to entertain audiences. The tradition of clowning can be traced back to ancient civilizations and has evolved over centuries, adapting to various cultural contexts and entertainment mediums.

History

The history of clowns is as old as civilization itself, with their roots in the court jesters of ancient Egypt and the comic actors of ancient Greece's theater. In medieval Europe, clowns served as jesters in royal courts, entertaining nobles with humor and satire. The modern clown, characterized by the white-faced makeup and colorful costumes, emerged in the 19th century with the popularity of the circus. Joseph Grimaldi, an English actor, is credited with developing much of the modern clown persona in the early 1800s.

Types of Clowns

There are several types of clowns, each with its unique characteristics and roles:

• Whiteface Clown: The most traditional type, featuring white makeup and often sophisticated costumes. They typically play the straight man to the more foolish characters.
• Auguste Clown: Characterized by exaggerated makeup and costumes, the Auguste clown plays the fool and is often the butt of jokes.
• Character Clown: These clowns base their act on a specific character or occupation, such as a hobo or a policeman.
• Rodeo Clown: Specializes in entertaining the audience at rodeo events and often performs dangerous acts to protect rodeo competitors from animals.

Cultural Impact

Clowns have had a significant impact on popular culture, appearing in literature, films, and television. They can evoke a range of emotions, from joy to fear. The figure of the clown has been explored in various contexts, from the innocent and joyful entertainer of children's parties to the sinister figure in horror genres, such as Stephen King's It.

Controversies and Coulrophobia

Despite their intention to entertain, clowns have often been the subject of controversy, with some people suffering from coulrophobia, an irrational fear of clowns. Incidents of people dressing as clowns to scare or harass others have contributed to this phenomenon.

Clowning Today

Today, clowns continue to entertain in circuses, festivals, and parties. They also participate in clown therapy, a form of emotional support where clowns visit hospitals to cheer up patients. The art of clowning is kept alive through various clown schools and organizations worldwide, dedicated to training the next generation of clowns.

See Also

• Circus
• Comedy
• Theatrical makeup