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Carnival in Venice. Moretta mask.
Moretta: The Mask of Silence and Elegance
The Moretta mask is one of the most mysterious and elegant masks of the Venetian Carnival. Unlike other masks, it is small, oval-shaped, and completely black, creating a striking contrast against the wearer’s skin. It was traditionally worn by noblewomen to add an air of intrigue and beauty.
What makes the Moretta truly unique is that it was held in place not by straps but by a small button between the teeth. This meant the wearer had to remain silent, adding to its air of mystery. It was a favorite among aristocratic women who wanted to appear both graceful and untouchable.
Though it faded from use over time, the Moretta mask remains a symbol of Venetian elegance and secrecy, reminding us of the silent yet powerful role of women in Venice’s masked history.
The Moretta mask is one of the most mysterious and elegant masks of the Venetian Carnival. Unlike other masks, it is small, oval-shaped, and completely black, creating a striking contrast against the wearer’s skin. It was traditionally worn by noblewomen to add an air of intrigue and beauty.
What makes the Moretta truly unique is that it was held in place not by straps but by a small button between the teeth. This meant the wearer had to remain silent, adding to its air of mystery. It was a favorite among aristocratic women who wanted to appear both graceful and untouchable.
Though it faded from use over time, the Moretta mask remains a symbol of Venetian elegance and secrecy, reminding us of the silent yet powerful role of women in Venice’s masked history.
Vocabulary for Venice Carnival
striking - attracting attention by reason of being unusual, extreme, or prominent.
поразительный
an air of - It can be used to describe a person's personality or used to describe the feeling associated with a place
атмосфера
to be held in place - To make something fixed or stable; to cause to be firmly attached.
удерживать на месте
straps - a strip of leather, cloth, or other flexible material, used to fasten, secure, or carry something or to hold on to something.
ремни
button - a small disc or knob sewn on to a garment, either to fasten it by being pushed through a slit made for the purpose or for decoration.
пуговица
graceful - having or showing grace or elegance.
изящный
to fade - gradually grow faint and disappear.
тускнеть. (faded - блеклый)
Vocabulary for the video
to conceal - not allow to be seen; hide.
скрывать
mute - refraining from speech or temporarily speechless.
молчаливый, безмолвный
intentions - a thing intended; an aim or plan.
намерения
suitor - a man who pursues a relationship with a particular woman, with a view to marriage.
поклонник
- Phrasal verb of the dayФразовый глагол дня
- To set upустроить
- to organize or prepare somethingорганизовать или подготовить что-либо
What do you remember? (Vocab)
| Take the quiz |
The Moretta mask has a simple yet ____ appearance, making it stand out in a crowd.
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| Check |
This mask gives the wearer ____ mystery and elegance, adding to its charm.
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| Check |
In the past, the Moretta mask used ____ place by biting a small button, making it impossible to speak.
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| Check |
Unlike other Venetian masks, the Moretta had no ____ or ribbons to tie it around the head.
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| Check |
Instead of a string, the mask stayed on the face with a small ____, which women had to bite.
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| Check |
The Moretta mask was popular among noblewomen because of its mysterious and ____ design.
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| Check |
Over time, the tradition of wearing the Moretta mask began ____, and fewer people wore it.
| Next |
| Check |
Great work! Well done!
| Restart |
Tilda Publishing
Questions to discuss with your teacher:
- What mask would you say is the most graceful? Why?
- Which one is more fun? Why?
- Not talking was considered mysterious, how does it compare to modern days? What is considered attractive today?