masquerade

Masquerade refers to the act of concealing one's identity through wearing masks or costumes, or to events and performances built around that concealment. The term derives from the French masque, from Italian maschera, and entered English in the early modern period; it has long been associated with Carnival traditions and masked balls.

Historically, masquerade grew from European carnival rites in Italy and the broader Renaissance culture, including Venice's Carnevale. Masks allowed social boundaries to be blurred, permitting participants to speak more freely, parody authority, or display alter egos. Common mask types include full-face designs and half masks paired with elaborate costumes that reflect aristocratic or fantastical personas. In formal masquerade balls, attendees wear masks and elegant attire, enabling a temporary suspension of ordinary identity.

In literature and the arts, masquerade is frequently used as a narrative device to explore themes of identity, deception, and social performance. Poe's The Masque of the Red Death treats masquerade as metaphor for social hypocrisy and mortality; in theatre, masked or costumed performances evoke ritual and mystery.

In contemporary usage, masquerade can describe any act of pretense or role-playing, as well as social events such as masquerade parties or charity balls. Modern masquerade events span proms, charity galas, and cosplay-inspired gatherings, often emphasizing aesthetic display and anonymity. Related topics include disguise, mask, carnival, and ball.