What was the purpose of commedia dell arte?

The purpose of commedia dell'arte was to provide entertainment and social commentary. It was a popular form of theatre during the Renaissance period, and it often featured humorous, satirical, and improvised performances. Commedia dell'arte troupes would travel from town to town, performing in public squares, theatres, and even the homes of wealthy patrons. The actors would wear masks and use stock characters, such as the clever servant, the foolish old man, and the beautiful young woman. The performances were often interactive, with the actors engaging the audience in jokes and games. Commedia dell'arte was also used as a way to criticize the social and political conventions of the time, and it often featured caricatures of the clergy, the nobility, and the wealthy.