pantomimos

Pantomimos refers to a theatrical genre that originated in ancient Rome, distinct from modern-day mime. These performances were elaborate spectacles, often involving music, dance, and elaborate costumes. Unlike mime, which relies solely on gesture and expression, pantomimos incorporated spoken dialogue or singing from a chorus or narrator, while the actor performed the narrative through movement and characterization. The main performer, known as the pantomimus, would impersonate various characters and convey emotions and actions through a stylized vocabulary of gestures and poses.

The subject matter of Roman pantomimos typically drew from mythology, history, and popular literature. Performances could range from tragic dramas to comedic farces. These shows were highly popular among all social classes in the Roman Empire, from the elite to the common people. The performers themselves, particularly the lead actors, could achieve considerable fame and influence. The art form gradually evolved and spread throughout the Roman world, with regional variations developing over time. While the specific practices and popularity waned with the decline of the Roman Empire, its influence can be seen in later theatrical traditions.