Accidental Death of an Anarchist: genre
Genre Analysis: Accidental Death of an Anarchist
The Commedia dell'Arte Tradition
- Accidental Death of an Anarchist uses the conventions of the Commedia dell'Arte, a form of Italian street theatre.
- The classic characters and scenarios from this style are reimaged in a contemporary (1960s) setting.
- Look at the ways in which the characters reflect traditional Commedia archetypes - notably the Maniac as the 'Zanni' or the comic servant.
Political Satire
- The play is a clear example of political satire. Its humour derives from the corruption demonstrated by those in positions of authority.
- Fo discusses serious political issues, such as police corruption and the abuse of power, using comedy and absurdity.
- Throughout, there are numerous irreverent references to government figures, which serves as a form of political commentary.
Farce and Slapstick
- Slapstick humour features heavily in the play, drawing once again from traditional Commedia dell'Arte techniques.
- There are many comic misunderstandings, characters in disguise, and physical comedy with exaggerated, unlikely or improbable situations.
- Dario Fo, the play's author, was heavily influenced by Laurel and Hardy - physical comedy can exhibit this influence.
Tragicomic Elements
- Despite its comedic form, the play also delivers a serious message about the nature of power and corruption. This gives the piece its tragicomic quality.
- While many events in the play are riotously funny, there is always a shadow of true events (the anarchist’s death) present.
- Explore this dichotomy - how does Fo balance these elements and what impact does it have on the audience?
Socio-political Drama
- The play can also be considered a form of socio-political drama, given its direct commentary and critique of specific socio-political events and systems.
- The death in police custody of the anarchist Giuseppe Pinelli and subsequent police cover-up form the basis for the plot.
- Fo's play challenges the 'official' narrative of these events, suggesting a broader critique of the mechanisms of power and state control.
Understanding how 'Accidental Death of an Anarchist' utilises genre conventions can inform a broader analysis of how the play communicates its themes and messages.