WHO WAS A SHAKESPEAREAN FOOL?

In the rich tapestry of Shakespearean plays, there exists a character who, despite its comedic antics, embodies far more depth and significance than meets the eye - the Shakespearean fool. Distinguishing this character from a clown isn't merely a matter of costumes and gags; it delves into their roles and impact within society. The Shakespearean fool, unlike a traditional clown, possessed a multifaceted role. Such characters were not just jesters for entertainment but often served as insightful commentators, revealing truths about other characters and situations through wit, irony, and satire. They often disguised their wisdom within their humorous dialogues, speaking uncomfortable truths that others dared not vocalise.

 

Types of Shakespearean Fools

In the Bard's theatricalmasterpieces, the depiction of fools transcends a singular archetype, offering a spectrum of characters that exemplify diverse facets of wit, wisdom, and societal critique. One such variant is the "clown," a character like the Fool in King Lear or Feste in Twelfth Night. They skilfully interweave jests and puns with profound insights, often using humour to shield poignant observations on the world around them. Their seemingly light-hearted banter belies a deep understanding of the underlying truths of the society they inhabits.  Contrasting the down is the 'wise fool', epitomised by character such as touchstone in as you like it. These figures posses an innate preceptiveness that belies their outward Appreance of buffoonery.  Their playful antics serve as a tool to unravel the hypocrisies and challenge conventional wisdom. In addition, the "moral fool" emerges in characters like Edgar disguised as Poor Tom in King Lear. These individuals adopt a guise of madness or folly to navigate perilous circumstances. Through their seemingly irrational behaviour

Court jesters  

Court jesters were the predecessors of the Shakespearean fool, and held a pivotal position in the monacrch's courts across the world. Beyond providing amusement, they acted as truth-tellers in a world where criticising those in power was perilous.

Costume

The iconic attire of a courtjester from its unique cap with bells and colourful costumes were symbols of their privilege to talk and mock without the fear of punishment. Beyond playing the role of injecting levity into a situation these comics possess a very rare privilege-free speech.

Comedy in the contemporary world Connecting the iconic Shakespearean archetype to modern stand-up comics unveils a similar underlying principle. Many contemporary stand-up comics, akin to the English playwright's stock character, use humour as a medium for societal commentary. However, they do not don a garb that could help them evade punishment for speaking truth to power or even expressing their personal opinions on a sensitive tonic that has rattled society.

The social impact By dressing reality in humour, comedy invites audiences to reflect on society's shortcomings, absurdities, and hypocrisies. It's a mirror held up to society, making us laugh while revealing uncomfortable truths. Challenging authority and societal norms provides a space for dissent and fosters critical thinking. In essence, the Shakespearean fool, the court jesters of history, and the stand-up comics of today share a common thread - they harness the power of comedy to illuminate truth.The laughter they induce in the guise of entertainment acts as a vehicle to convey profound insights, provoke contemplation, and challenge societal norms. As we laugh along, we also find ourselves introspecting, confronting uncomfortable realities, and perhaps, contemplating the change we wish to see in the world.

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What made Iron Man so popular?


‘I am Iron Man’ and ‘I love you 3000’ are perhaps two dialogues that any Iron Man fan could never forget. If you have been keeping a track of the Avengers series, you already know how powerful he is. But why is he so popular? Let us see.



Tony Stark is an ingenious scientist and the owner of Stark Industries. He is once kidnapped by some terrorists who ask him to build a weapon of mass destruction. He suffers a severe chest injury while being kidnapped. Instead of building the weapon his captors ask for, he creates a mechanized suit of armour to save his life and escape from captivity.



Later, Stark develops his suit, adding weapons and other technological devices he designs. He uses this suit to save the world time and again. He conceals his true identity in the beginning, but later reveals to the world that he is iron Man.



Tony Stark is an average human being with high intellect and mastery over martial arts. It is his suit that powers him and he can be killed with any weapon outside his suit. Tony Stark is also a founding member of the Avengers.



Iron Man was co-created by writer and editor Stan Lee, developed by scripter Larry Lieber, and designed by artists Don Heck and Jack Kirby. The character made its first appearance in 1963. Iron Man is played by Robert Downey Jr. in the film adaptations.




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What makes Batman different from other superheroes?


Gotham city is perhaps the most well-known fictional city —the place where Batman operates. Many of the superheroes that we know have supernatural powers. But Batman does not possess any strange superpower. However, his intellect is superior to the common folk and he has a commendable mastery over martial arts.



Bruce Wayne is a wealthy American philanthropist; he owns the Wayne Enterprises. As a child, Bruce witnesses his parents’ murder. It shakes him and leaves him disturbed for years. Frustrated by anger, he swears to take vengeance against criminals. This gives him a sense of justice.



The worst of Bruce’s fears was bats; therefore, he crafts a bat-inspired persona to fight crime. Bruce trains himself physically and intellectually as well.



Batman was created for DC Comics by artist Bob Kane and writer Bill Finger. Batman first appeared in 1939. The character became popular soon and gained his own comic book title, Batman, the following year. The character has been adapted for serials and films since then.



Many actors played Batman; prominent among them are George Clooney, Ben Affleck, and Warren Christie. Robert Pattinson will portray the character in the upcoming 2022 film, The Batman.



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When did Superman first appear?


Who does not know Superman, the American comic strip superhero? Superman is arguably the first ever superhero. Though he does not seem to be growing old, Superman is almost a century old. Superman first appeared in Action Comics, No. 1 in June, 1938. It was published by DC Comics.



Here goes the story of Superman. On the doomed planet Krypton, scientists Jor-El and Lara place their infant son Kai-El into a rocket bound for Earth. He is found by Martha and Jonathan Kent, a kind couple from the American town of Smallville. They name the boy Clark Kent and raise him as their own. Clark exhibits superhuman powers right from his childhood.



He has incredible strength, super speed and can leap over great distances. Upon reaching adulthood, Kent moves to an urban metropolis and goes on to work as a reporter for the newspaper Daily Planet.



Superman was created by writer Jerry Siegel and artist Joe Shuster. The first Superman feature film was released in 1951. It starred George Reeves as Superman.



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What made Spider-Man popular as the modern age superhero?


When Spider-Man first entered the world of comics, his creators had no idea that he would go on to become a legend. Peter Parker, a university going boy became Spider-Man.



Peter Parker becomes an orphan after his parents die in a plane crash. He is raised by his Aunt May and Uncle Ben in New York City. Peter acquires spider-related abilities after getting bitten by a radio-active spider.



He can now cling on to surfaces, and has superhuman strength and agility. He can also detect danger with his spider-sense. His foes such as Doctor Octopus, the Green Goblin and Venom are also famous.



Spider-Man was created by Stan Lee and writer-artist Steve Ditko for Marvel Comics in 1962. Spider-Man first appeared in the anthology comic book Amazing Fantasy #15.



Martin Goodman, the publisher of Marvel Comics did not respond positively to the idea of Spider-Man. He did not like the idea of a teen super hero. Despite his doubts, Spider-Man went on to become a true universal super-hit.




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What do we know about Rubeus Hagrid?


All Harry Potter fans have a special affection towards Hagrid. He is incredibly warm and kind-hearted. Sometimes, this half giant and half human would forget his exceptional size and strength while patting people on the back. His concern and love for Harry is limitless.



Rubeus Hagrid is introduced in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Hagrid lives at Hogwarts. He is the keeper of Keys and Grounds of Hogwarts. He is also a member of the Order of the Phoenix. Hagrid’s courage and loyalty knows no boundaries. He is fiercely loyal to Albus Dumbledore. In fact, Dumbledore trusts Hagrid with his life. Hagrid proves his trustworthiness by carrying out many secret tasks for Dumbledore, time and again. But Hagrid cannot keep secrets, which Harry exploits time and again.



Hagrid is the first Hogwarts member that Harry meets. Hagrid meets Harry before the school starts and he helps Harry to obtain everything that he needs for the wizarding world. The friendship between Harry and Hagrid starts there.



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Why is Dobby considered as a prominent magical creature in the Potter series?


Remember a scared house-elf with long ears, crooked nose and tattered clothes who comes to Harry to discourage him from returning to Hogwarts? His name is Dobby and he first appears in the second of the Potter novels titled Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.



Dobby not only discourages Harry from returning to Hogwarts, he seals off the magical entrance to platform 9 ¾ so that he would miss the Hogwarts Express. That too doesn’t work out as Ron comes to the rescue with his father’s flying car. Later, Dobby also tries to enchant a Bludger to chase Harry, hoping to cause him enough injury to be sent home during a Quidditch match. The Bludger only manages to break Harry’s arm though. It is only revealed later that Dobby actually cares for Harry.



Dobby was enslaved by the Dark Wizards and Lucius Malfoy was his master, and Harry tricks Malfoy to set Dobby free. Dobby displays an undying loyalty towards Harry after this. Dobby was voiced by Toby Jones in the film adaptations.



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Why is Draco Lucius Malfoy a significant character in the Potter series?


 



Draco Lucius Malfoy is a bully who manipulates and hurts people to get what he wants. He is a student of Harry’s year and belongs to the Slytherin House. He is a cunning user of magic, and is often accompanied by two buddies who act as henchmen.



He is described as a tall, slender boy with a pale, pointed face, sleek blond hair, and ice grey eyes.



Draco is a spoiled, rich brat; he believes that his family’s wealth and social position give him the right to bully those poorer than himself, such as Ron. While on the Hogwarts Express for the very first time, Draco Malfoy offers his friendship to Harry Potter. This was because of his father’s belief that Harry was a Dark Wizard. Draco wished to impress him and relay the interesting news home. However, Harry didn’t like Draco’s attitude towards Ron. This creates an enmity that lasts through the rest of their schooling. Draco also insults Hermione Granger’s Muggle-born status by referring to her as a ‘Mudblood’, a term not used in civilised conversations.




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What are the specialties’ of Professor Minerva McGonagall?


Professor Minerva McGonagall serves many roles at Hogwarts; she is the head of the Gryffindor House and professor of Transfiguration. She serves as the Deputy Headmistress under Albus Dumbledore. She is also a member of the Order of the Phoenix. Later, Professor McGonagall also takes the position of Headmistress.



Professor McGonagall is held in high respect by her peers and students at Hogwarts. She is skilled in many forms of magic. She is a registered Animagus. An Animagus is a wizard who can transform into an animal at will. She is also notable for her sternness and dry sense of humour. Dame Maggie Smith portrays Professor McGonagall in the Potter films.



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Why is Ron Weasley a character of great comic relief?


Ronald Bilius Weasley is best-known as Harry Potter’s best friend. Ron is present beside Harry while most of the actions unfurl. He belongs to the Weasley family, a pure blood family that resides in ‘The Burrow’ outside Ottery St. Catchpole. Harry, Ron and Hermione belong to Gryffindor House, at the Hogwarts School.



Ron appears as a stark contrast to Harry at times. Ron comes from a loving, but poor family. On the other hand, Harry is an orphan with lots of possessions. Many of Ron’s possessions are hand-me-downs. Harry is famous but would prefer to avoid the spotlight. Ron becomes jealous of the recognition Harry receives at times.



Ron is not as talented as Harry, at least in terms of magical power. However, he proves his bravery several times. Ron plays the ‘real wizard’s chess’, and enters the Forbidden Forest with Harry despite his intense fear of spiders. He also plays a crucial role in the final Battle of Hogwarts.



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Why is it said that Professor Severus Snape is a character with many layers?


Professor Severus Snape is an exceptionally skilled wizard whose coldly sarcastic and controlled exterior conceals deep emotions and anguish. Professor Snape is hostile to Harry due to the latter’s resemblance to his father James; James Potter had bullied Snape during their time at Hogwarts. Albus Dumbledore trusts Snape for reasons that are not disclosed to others. Snape’s loyalty is under question until the seventh book, in which his full story is revealed.



J K Rowling describes Snape as a ‘horrible teacher’ whose story she had visualised since the first book. Actor Alan Rickman portrayed Snape in all eight Harry Potter films, released between 2001 and 2011.



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What is the role played by Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter series?


Albus Dumbledore is the headmaster of Hogwarts. Dumbledore is also the founder and leader of the Order of the Phoenix, an organisation dedicated to fighting the evil Lord Voldemort.



As a supremely talented wizard, Dumbledore displays extraordinary powers. He is the only wizard Lord Voldemort ever truly fears. This is despite his friendly nature; he often uses humour to make people feel comfortable in his presence. Dumbledore goes head-to-head with Voldemort, holds off an army of bewitched dead bodies called ‘inferi’, and knocks out several officials of the Ministry of Magic in a split second. Later he dies, but remains a looming presence even after his death.



Rowling gives a distinct picture of Dumbledore’s appearance. He is tall, lean and has a very long and crooked nose that looks as if it has been broken at least twice. His silver beard is so long that it can be tucked into his belt. His eyes are a soul-piercing shade of blue that usually twinkle with kindness and mischief. His fingers are long and skilful. Dumbledore wears half-moon spectacles and a colourful array of robes, ranging from purple to bright orange.



Dumbledore plays a significant role in Harry’s life. Dumbledore is like his godfather and constantly reminds Harry that love is the greatest magic of all. This great wizard himself had a great capacity for love and he believed in the good in everyone. He is also not hesitant to give a second chance to people.



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What makes Hermione Granger unique?


 



Hermione Jean Granger is one of the most loved characters in the Potter series. She first appears in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, as a new student on her way to Hogwarts. She becomes aware of her magical nature at the age of eleven and is accepted at Hogwarts.



Hermione possesses a brilliant academic mind and proves to be a gifted student in almost every subject that she studies. Harry and Ron save her in a difficult situation and she becomes best friends with them.



After that, she comes to their rescue in various situations; Hermione often uses her quick wit, smart recall, and encyclopaedic knowledge to help and save Harry and Ron.



However, Hermione is insecure and often fears failure. Rowling once stated that Hermione resembles herself. Emma Watson plays Hermione Granger in the Potter films.



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What do we know about the villain of the Potter series?


Lord Voldemort is so ominous that even his name is not uttered in Hogwarts. Instead, he is referred to as ‘You-Know Who’, or ‘He Who Must Not Be Named’. Voldemort is the archenemy of Harry Potter.



According to a prophecy, Harry Potter has ‘the power to vanquish the Dark Lord.’ Voldemort attempts to murder Harry, but kills his parents, Lily and James Potter instead.



Voldemort is the last descendant of the wizard Salazar Slytherin, one of the four founders of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. He is obsessed with the purity of blood and he aims to get rid of the Muggles-people of non-magical origin like Hermione Granger. He is the leader of the Death Eaters, a group of evil wizards and witches dedicated to ridding the Wizarding World of Muggles and establishing Voldemort as its supreme ruler. Rowling describes Voldemort as ‘the evilest wizard for hundreds and hundreds of years’.



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Why is Harry Potter so popular?


Harry Potter needs no introduction. The popularity of this adorable young wizard was so widespread that J K Rowling, the creator went on to write seven novels featuring Harry and his friends, and their adventures.



Harry Potter first appears in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Harry is introduced as an orphan who is mistreated by his guardian aunt and uncle and their son. On his 11th birthday, Harry discovers that he is the son of the famous wizard-witch couple-James and Lily Potter. He also learns that his parents had not perished in a car accident, as his aunt and uncle had told him. They had been murdered by an evil wizard named Voldemort.



Harry is the only person to have ever survived an attack by Voldemort by somehow rebounding the latter’s killing curse. However, this leaves him with a lightning-bolt-shaped scar on his forehead.



Harry’s survival angers Voldemort particularly as the boy is already a celebrity in the world of wizardry. On his 11th birthday, Harry is invited to join the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. He is taken under the wing of the school’s headmaster, Albus Dumbledore.



At Hogwarts Harry become friends with classmates Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger and finds a rival in Draco Malfoy. The rest of the story is about the rivalry between Harry and Voldemort. Voldemort attempts to take Harry’s life beginning in the first book and continuing throughout the series. With the help of those who love him and believe in him, Harry is able to emerge victorious in the end.



Harry Potter has been considered as one of the greatest literary and film characters of all time.





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