Soccus

The soccus (plural socci) was a soft, low shoe or slipper worn in ancient Greece and Rome. It was distinct from the cothurnus, a high-platformed boot. The soccus was generally associated with comedy, actors in comic performances, and domestic or informal wear. It was typically made of leather or other soft materials. In contrast to the cothurnus, which signified tragedy and high status, the soccus denoted informality, relaxation, and often lower social standing or a comedic context. The term is also sometimes used figuratively to represent comedy itself.