antimasque

An antimasque, also known as an antic masque or false masque, was a performance that preceded the main masque. It was typically introduced for comic or grotesque contrast to the elegance of the masque that followed.12

The masque itself was a form of entertainment, often a festival, where disguised participants would offer gifts to their host and then join in a ceremonial dance. These events could range from simple processions to elaborate staged shows featuring lyrical drama, song, and dance. The themes were usually complimentary to the host, often mythological or allegorical.1

The antimasque was a concept developed by Ben Jonson, a prominent English dramatist and poet. He introduced it around 1609 as a way to add variety and contrast to the masque. The antimasque often featured grotesque elements and served to highlight the subsequent elegance of the main masque. Over time, the antimasque evolved and could become primarily a farce or pantomime.13