The literal meaning of burlesque is to "send up" and the term is derived from
the Latin word burra. In 14th century Britain, Geoffrey Chaucer’s satirical The Canterbury Tales popularized burlesque in verse and prose. In 16th century Spain, poet, Miguel de Cervantes, popularized burlesque in his many satirical works. In 17th century France and Italy, burlesque became a widely known term and popularly known as the grotesque imitation of the pathetic or dignified.
In the early 18th century, burlesque combined with comic and serious elements became popular in Europe for a grotesque effect. In 19th century England, theatrical burlesque became popular in the form of musical parody and became a form of middle class entertainment. Burlesque gained its large appeal because of its penchant for casting female actors in the lead male roles and double entendre. The traditional British burlesque is now known as classical burlesque or musical burlesque and is very different from modern burlesque which focuses more on striptease.
In 20th century America, burlesque became associated with many variety shows where striptease became the chief attracting element. American burlesque encompasses parody, wit, and pastiche with a variety of acts such as chanson singers, mime artists, dancing girls, comedians, and striptease artists. In 1870, Michael B. Leavitt created one of the first burlesque troupes, Rentz – Santley Novelty and Burlesque
Company.
the Latin word burra. In 14th century Britain, Geoffrey Chaucer’s satirical The Canterbury Tales popularized burlesque in verse and prose. In 16th century Spain, poet, Miguel de Cervantes, popularized burlesque in his many satirical works. In 17th century France and Italy, burlesque became a widely known term and popularly known as the grotesque imitation of the pathetic or dignified.
In the early 18th century, burlesque combined with comic and serious elements became popular in Europe for a grotesque effect. In 19th century England, theatrical burlesque became popular in the form of musical parody and became a form of middle class entertainment. Burlesque gained its large appeal because of its penchant for casting female actors in the lead male roles and double entendre. The traditional British burlesque is now known as classical burlesque or musical burlesque and is very different from modern burlesque which focuses more on striptease.
In 20th century America, burlesque became associated with many variety shows where striptease became the chief attracting element. American burlesque encompasses parody, wit, and pastiche with a variety of acts such as chanson singers, mime artists, dancing girls, comedians, and striptease artists. In 1870, Michael B. Leavitt created one of the first burlesque troupes, Rentz – Santley Novelty and Burlesque
Company.