Innamorati

Innamorati is a term originating from the Italian word for "lovers." It most commonly refers to characters in commedia dell'arte, a form of improvisational theater that flourished in Italy from the 16th to 18th centuries. In commedia dell'arte, the Innamorati are typically a young, aristocratic couple who are deeply in love. Their primary role in the play is to drive the romantic plot forward, often facing obstacles and misunderstandings that keep them apart.

Unlike the stock characters who wear masks and are often archetypes of society, the Innamorati usually do not wear masks and are portrayed as more refined and educated. Their dialogue tends to be more lyrical and elaborate, reflecting their passionate feelings. They are often the catalysts for the various schemes and mistaken identities that characterize commedia dell'arte plots. The Innamorati are usually contrasted with the more boisterous and earthy masked characters. Their stories often revolve around parental disapproval, rival suitors, or misunderstandings that need to be resolved for them to finally be united. The enduring popularity of the romantic trope means that characters similar to the Innamorati can be found in various forms of storytelling beyond commedia dell'arte.