 | This article has multiple issues. Please helpimprove it or discuss these issues on thetalk page.(Learn how and when to remove these messages) (Learn how and when to remove this message)
|
.png)
Motley is the traditionalcostume of thecourt jester, the motley fool, or the arlecchino character incommedia dell'arte. Theharlequin wears a patchwork of red, green and blue diamonds that is still[citation needed] afashion motif.
The wordmotley is described in theOxford English Dictionary as acognate ofmedley, although the unrelatedmottled has also contributed to the meaning. The word is most commonly used as anadjective ornoun, but is also seen as averb andadverb. When used as a noun, it can mean "a varied mixture". As an adjective, it is generally disparaging: amotley collection is an uninspiring pile of stuff, as in the clichémotley crew.
The word originated in England between the 14th and 17th centuries and referred to awoollen fabric of mixed colours.[1] It was the characteristic dress of the professional fool. During the reign ofElizabeth I, motley served the important purpose of keeping the fool outside the social hierarchy and therefore not subject to class distinction. Since the fool was outside thedress laws, the fool was able to speak more freely.
Likewise, motley did not have to be checkered and has been recently thought to be one pattern with different coloured threads running through it.
Motley is the only wear.
— Shakespeare,As You Like It, ii. 7
| Types |  | |
|---|---|---|
| Organizations | ||
| Related | ||
| Documentaries |
| |
