Concept in Definition ABC

A costume is a clothing that is used to pretend that its wearer is a different person than it really is. In this way, someone can dress up for fun, to play a joke, to perform a theatrical performance or in the context of carnival. In some shows, the costume plays a relevant role (for example, in the world of the circus or in the show of transformism). In any of its possibilities, the disguise has a meaning playful and entertainment oriented. However, this general trend has some exceptions (there are thieves who disguise themselves as part of the strategy to steal).

The carnival

During the carnival the costume acquires a symbolic significance. In the tradition Christian carnival is celebrated before Lent, a time of purification and spiritual reflection. For some anthropologists this has a meaning: carnival is a time of joy and of festivity that precedes the period of recollection. The celebration has its origin in the pagan festivities of antiquity, especially among the Romans who honored the god Bacchus with festive and playful meetings.

In modern carnival the only pretense of costume is fun. However, the use of masks in some carnivals introduces a mysterious element.

From a perspective psychological analysis, the act of disguising can be understood as something more than a simple hobby, as it is probably a way of hiding who we are or communicating who we wish we were. It could be equally valued as a means of escape or evasion or even as a defense mechanism (someone who is criticized for their homosexuality You may decide to disguise yourself as a woman in order to adopt a position that counteracts the criticism you receive.)

Disguise and children's fantasy

The kids they are characterized by their fantasy. This feature makes dressing up a very attractive game for any child. Going dressed in the uniform of one of his heroes, a prince or a police uniform is an ideal strategy to experience a experience only. Fantasy and costume are a perfect combination so that the child can feel like someone else. In the children's context, one can talk about the magic of disguise.

Disguise in the animal kingdom

Somehow the disguise is equally present in nature, especially among some species of animals. A clear example is camouflage, a process of transformation of the appearance for the purpose of deceiving predators. In this sense, camouflage is an adaptive defense strategy.