Here's a breakdown of its evolution:
* 16th century: "Burla" was adapted into the Italian word "burlesco", meaning "jesting", "mockery", or "comic". This term referred to a type of dramatic performance that exaggerated or mocked existing literary works, typically with a humorous or satirical intent.
* 17th century: The word "burlesco" was adopted into the English language as "burlesque", initially used to describe satirical or parodic literary works.
* 18th century: The term "burlesque" began to encompass theatrical performances that featured exaggerated costumes, music, and comedic dialogue, often lampooning serious subjects.
* 19th century: Burlesque evolved further, becoming a popular form of entertainment that featured scantily clad women performing comedic sketches and musical numbers. This evolution of burlesque was heavily influenced by vaudeville and music hall traditions.
* 20th century: Burlesque continued to evolve, embracing a wider range of themes and styles, including satire, political commentary, and feminist themes.
Therefore, the origin of the word "burlesque" lies in the Italian word "burla," meaning "jest" or "mockery," and its journey through different languages and theatrical traditions. It ultimately refers to a form of entertainment that blends humor, satire, and often, a degree of physical comedy and suggestive humor, often presented in a theatrical setting.