Mask

or Masque, a form of dramatic entertainment popular in England during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. It was introduced into England from Italy. The mask took its name from the fact that the performers, who were usually amateurs, wore masks. It was presented at a castle to celebrate some special event or honor some noble. The mask was allegorical in character. It was usually short, with little action and few characters, but with much dancing and singing, elaborate costumes and spectacular scenes. One presentation sometimes cost thousands of pounds. The roles were often taken by lords and ladies or even members of the royal family. Milton's Comus is regarded as the finest example of a mask in the English language. See Comus