Masquerade (trope)

[1] There exists the true nature of a character or situation alongside the image that is outwardly displayed and perceived by others in that universe, which can create a layered complexity that adds depth and dimension to the narrative.

[1] The historical traces of this term extend deeply throughout history and its influence on the texts in which appears becomes increasingly more dynamic and a variety of genres take advantage of the masquerade trope.

[3] This motif evolves and becomes more complex at the beginning of the Middle Ages with the introduction of separation of character and identity of an individual by Augustine of Hippo and experienced further growth beyond this time period.

[1] It constructs more dimension around characters, in some situations attributing conflicting traits to a single individual, which leads readers to regard them as more complex and unique rather than a predictable figure.

[4][5] Initial signs of this trope appearing have been found as early as 1673 with John Dryden's Marriage à la mode, which had continued and increased adaptations of the original playwright through the mid-1700's.

Her works tend to highlight female characters, who are otherwise oppressed by socio-economic normative expectations, explore their gender identity and sexuality in an uninhibited way as a result of the masquerade.

[1] Women writers such as Haywood have been known for cultivating this relationship between using the mask and themes of femininity, establishing greater associations of promiscuity and sexual freedoms surrounding masquerades more broadly.