Character mask

In Marxist philosophy, a character mask (Charaktermaske) is a prescribed social role that serves to conceal the contradictions of a social relation or order. The term was used by Karl Marx in various published writings from the 1840s to the 1860s, and also by Friedrich Engels.

It is related to the classical Greek concepts of mimesis (imitative representation using analogies) and prosopopoeia (impersonation or personification) as well as the Roman concept of persona, but also differs from them (see below). The notion of character masks has been used by neo-Marxist and non-Marxist sociologists, philosophers and anthropologists to interpret how people relate in societies with a complex division of labour, where people depend on trade to meet many of their needs. Marx’s own notion of the character mask was not a fixed idea with a singular definition.

Character mask and Masking technologies in Practical Philosophy

As a psychological term, “character” is traditionally used more in continental Europe, while in Britain and North America the term “personality” is used in approximately the same contexts. Marx however uses the term “character mask” analogously to a theatrical role, where the actor (or the characteristics of a prop) represents a certain interest or function, and intends by character both “the characteristics of somebody” and “the characteristics of something”. Marx’s metaphorical use of the term “character masks” refers back to carnival masks and the masks used in classical Greek theatre. At issue is the social form in which a practice is acted out.

COVID 2020 UPD:

The Walt Disney Masks

The Walt Disney Company has unveiled its own line of character face masks amid the coronovirus outbreak, with sales proceeds to go to charity.

The face masks feature favorite Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars characters, including Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, Anna and Elsa, Woody and Buzz Lightyear, The Avengers and Baby Yoda. The masks, which come in small, medium and large sizes, are available for pre-order and are estimated to ship in June.

The company debuted the masks today on Good Morning America.

Wiki: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Character_mask

Disney Debuts Character Face Masks; Proceeds To Go To Charity