Bergamask

The term "Bergamask" has several possible meanings, generally relating to the Italian city of Bergamo and the surrounding area. It can refer to:

• A dialect: Bergamask is a dialect of the Lombard language spoken in and around Bergamo, Italy. Like other Lombard dialects, it differs significantly from standard Italian.

• A dance: Historically, the Bergamask (or Bergamasca) was a rustic dance originating from the Bergamo region. It was often characterized by clumsy or comic movements and was popular in European courts, particularly during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. The dance itself is sometimes seen as a caricature of the inhabitants of Bergamo.

• A theatrical character: In commedia dell'arte, "Bergamask" often refers to stock characters originating from the Bergamo area, such as Brighella and Arlecchino (Harlequin). These characters are known for their cunning, wit, and sometimes buffoonish behavior. They often spoke in a dialect considered representative of the region.

• A breed of sheepdog: The Bergamasco Sheepdog is a herding breed originating from the Bergamo Alps in Italy. It is characterized by its unique, dense, matted coat.