Commedia dell'arte
It was an early form of theatre, starting off in Italy, with comedy as it's focus. It was mainly improvised, using things called stock characters. These characters were designed using masks, except for the 'Lovers' who didn't wear any masks. These performances were usually based on sketched scenarios, but also can be scripted. However, the characters entrances and exits are always scripted. A special, but very popular characteristic of Commedia is the 'Lazzo' (plural is Lazzi) which is a stock routine, which are always jokes, normally being foolish, sexual, or witty.
Commedia dell'arte stock characters
Arlecchino
Normally identified by his colourful diamond patterned costume. His role is usually a carefree, cheerful but also cunning servant who tries to plan against his master 'Pantalone' but his plans never work, to pursue his love interest with Colombina. He is the typical trickster and is referred to as Harlequin nowadays.
Zanni
This character is a servant and a trickster. The word "zany" derives from the stock character Zanni. He is known as the foolish, curious, and lowest power out of the servants. The longer the nose of the mask, the more foolish the character. Zanni is always ignorant, and has no awareness. Often, the Lazzo was focused on Zanni. When performed, the characteristics are; bent knees, lowered back, their body is lead by the nose and chin, and when stepping, the toes come before the heel. He also walks in beats of three, taking 3 steps at a time and pausing.
Pantalone
He originated from the master-servant duo and was the original 'Magnifico' stock character. He is the metaphorical representation of money, always greedy for money, or counting the coins he has. The sole intent for Pantalone was to try keep a social status that he could meddle with other's affairs. He is usually the father to one of the lovers (innamorati), and is driven to keep them apart. When performed; their back must be very bent over, hands above their privates (which is where Pantalone's money is kept, as it is said those are the two most precious things to him) and heels coming first before the toes when stepping, with high knees as well.