Footwear as a theatrical symbolSourced
The tragic boot was contrasted with the comic shoe
High-heeled buskins were worn by Athenian tragic actors to appear taller. The footwear could consequently symbolize tragedy, contrasted with the low shoe associated with comedy. An item of costume became a way to name a kind of drama.
The footwear carried a role beyond the stage outfit.
Summary / translation: Unbubly · CC BY-SA 4.0
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Buskin · Wikimedia contributors
Adapted, summarized and translated from the source. Adapted text is also available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Reviewed: 2026-10-05