Carnevale Ambrosiano) and in local marionette traditional shows.[1]
It is uncertain whether his name is just a diminutive form of
three-cornered hat, a pony-tailed wig, short green pants, red-white striped stockings, black shoes with buckles, a white shirt, a yellow or otherwise colorful flowered vest, a long jacket, and an umbrella.[2][3] Meneghino's sincerity is also symbolized by the fact that, unlike most commedia dell'arte characters, he doesn't wear a mask. While originally a servant, Meneghino has actually taken on different roles on stage, including that of the master, the peasant, and the merchant.[1] In Carnival parades, he is often accompanied by his wife Cecca (Milanese diminutive of Francesca
).
The character was first popularized (and possibly created)[
Risorgimento), he became a symbol of the Milanese revolutionary movement against the Austrian oppression.[1]
