Unmasking Pulcinella: More Than Just a Chicken Joke in Genshin Impact
Ever thought about who runs the show in Teyvat? Genshin Impact is full of mysterious characters. But few are as secretive as Pulcinella. You’ve heard his name, maybe seen it flash by. But who is this Pulcinella in the Fatui? Let’s dig into his story and see what we can find.
Pulcinella: The Enigmatic Rooster of the Fatui
Let’s start with the basics. Pulcinella is the 5th Harbinger of the Fatui. Think of the Harbingers as the elite team of the Tsaritsa. Each member holds great power. Pulcinella operates from the shadows, making plans and influencing events. There isn’t much information about him. But we know he brought Tartaglia, or Childe, into the Fatui. Quite the talent scout, or maybe a lover of chaos.
Power Plays: Political Muscle and More
Forget elemental powers. Pulcinella’s strength lies in politics and economics. He enjoys “nigh-unlimited executive authority,” a fancy way to say he gets to do as he pleases. Need resources or favors? He has connections deeper than Abyss. Pulcinella pulls the strings without appearing to get involved.
From Italian Stage to Teyvat Stage: The Commedia dell’Arte Connection
Now it gets interesting. Genshin Impact borrows from many cultures. Pulcinella reflects this, rooted in Commedia dell’Arte. This is 16th-century Italian improvisational theatre, filled with stock characters, masks, and humor. Pulcinella stands out in this tradition. Let’s explore his background.
Hatching the Legend: Origins of Pulcinella
The name “Pulcinella” hints at birds. It comes from Italian, meaning “pulcino” (chick) or “pollastrello” (rooster). Right away, chicken vibes appear. The character hails from Naples and is iconic. The French call him Polichinelle, while English people know him as Mr. Punch. He adapts through cultures while maintaining core essence.
Some believe his roots go back to ancient Latin comedies. Others tell stories of a farmer named Puccio d’Aniello from Acerra. Puccio grew tired of farming and joined vagrants, creating a new legend. Whether he’s a comedian or a legacy, Pulcinella’s essence is theatrical history. More on his heritage is available at the World Encyclopedia of Puppetry Arts.
Look and Quack: Pulcinella’s Defining Characteristics
Picture a character: heavy on top, with a potbelly and an exaggerated hooked nose. That’s Pulcinella. He’s a clown with a twist. His pure white clothing contrasts with a black mask that highlights the beak-like nose. This feature influences his character. The look derives from Latin “pullus gallinaceus,” meaning young chick.
His movements and voice also stand out. Imagine a jerky walk, more comical than confident, with a squeaky, reedy voice. In puppet theatre, they use a swazzle for this effect. These traits evoke a chicken’s nature, reinforcing the name’s origins. Some say he was “hatched from a turkey egg,” adding to his quirky persona. Often presented as a hunchback, there’s a Neapolitan belief male hunchbacks bring good luck. His getup includes a large white smock, a soft hat, and that distinctive black half-mask.
Soul of the People: Meaning and Symbolism
Pulcinella goes beyond a funny mask. He embodies deeper meanings. Known as “the soul of the people,” he represents primal instincts and raw spirit. In Neapolitan culture, he serves as a mascot and good luck charm. He mocks authority and stands for the underdog. His origins trace back to the 1300s, linked to the term “piccolo pulcino,” meaning negligent. His history reaches antiquity, where masks like his depicted natural forces, linking animals and spirits.
Zanni Buddies: Relationship to Fellow Commedia Characters
Pulcinella classifies as a “second Zanni” in Commedia dell’Arte. Zanni are comic servant types, existing in various forms. First Zanni include Mezzetino and Brighella, known for trickery and cunning. Second Zanni, like Pulcinella and Harlequin, act clownish, driven by basic desires and slapstick comedy. They are the heart of comedic chaos in performances.
Name Game: Let’s Talk About That Chicken Again
Reiterating, the name “Pulcinella” links firmly to chickens. Derived from “pollastrello” or “pulcino,” the avian ties are significant. This name is not random; it shapes the entire character’s identity, from appearance to movements, even in its symbolic meaning.
Moves Like a… Chicken? Pulcinella’s Unique Movement Style
We’ve discussed it, but visualize Pulcinella in action more clearly. Think small, jerky steps resembling a pecking chicken. He might shoot into skips or dashes, adding to his unpredictable character. This movement style, combined with his squeaky voice and chicken-like look, solidifies his poultry essence.
Pulcinella Beyond the Stage: Branching Out into Other Media
Pulcinella’s charm isn’t limited to stage performances. He’s made appearances in other media, showcasing his lasting appeal.
Balletic Feathers: Pulcinella in Dance
Notably, Pulcinella appeared in ballet with Igor Stravinsky’s “Pulcinella” (1920). This ballet was commissioned by Sergei Diaghilev of Ballets Russes fame. This presentation was a high-profile project! The ballet lasts around 35-40 minutes, based on the 1700 manuscript “I Quattro Pulcinelli,” showcasing our masked character. Stravinsky’s work marked a new direction after earlier successes like “The Firebird.” Diaghilev found the manuscript in Naples, inspiring this ballet’s creation. For more insights, visit Ballet Malandain’s page on Pulcinella.
Gears and Giggles: Pulcinella in Lies of P
The gaming realm also embraced Pulcinella’s quirky aura. In “Lies of P,” a unique twist on Pinocchio, you meet a version of Pulcinella. He’s Venigni’s missing butler, found damaged against a wall near the Chapter III boss battle with King’s Flame Fuoco. Saving him unlocks both characters at Hotel Krat, a fun nod to Commedia dell’Arte.
Fellow Fatui Faces: A Glimpse at Pulcinella’s Colleagues
To understand Pulcinella’s role in Genshin Impact, knowing his fellow Harbingers helps. There are eleven total members. Capitano is said to be No. 1, though rankings can be slippery. Pulcinella ranks at No. 5.
We’ve met others: Scaramouche (6th, known as Kunikuzushi or The Balladeer), Sandrone (7th, “Marionette”), and Arlecchino (4th during Archon Quest 4.1). Pantalone is No. 9, regarded as the wealthiest, while Columbina holds mystery around her rank but is part of the inner circle. These are a few characters Pulcinella collaborates with, each having their quirks and agendas. For Genshin lore and characters, check outGenshin Impact’s Lore on HoYoLAB (beware of potential spoilers!).
As Pulcinella in Genshin Impact remains a mystery, his roots in Commedia dell’Arte create a rich background. He stands in tradition, symbolism, and theatrical essence within Teyvat’s realm. With the game progressing, we hope to learn more about this feathery figure and reveal his secrets. After all, who wouldn’t want to see a rooster-style Fatui Harbinger? It’s sure to be hilarious… and perhaps powerful too.
