Significance of Mask

The term "Mask" has various interpretations across different disciplines. In Shilpashastra, it is associated with artistic representations used by performers to embody characters in Indian performance art. Natyashastra emphasizes masks as facial coverings in plays, helping depict character traits. In Yoga, the focus shifts to masks as personas that hide one's true self, inhibiting authentic expression. Historically, masks symbolize facades that conceal identity and emotions, reflecting both personal and cultural identities, including Yeats's theory on passionate individuals' connections to past identities.1
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Synonyms: Disguise, Veil, Shield, Costume, Covering, Protector, Cover, Facade, Camouflage, Screen, Concealment

In Dutch: Masker; In Finnish: Naamio; In Spanish: Mascarilla

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Mask'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, "Mask" symbolizes not only the physical coverings used in theatrical performances to signify character traits but also reflects deeper themes of identity and self-concealment, highlighting the tension between true self and societal roles.

Significance in Natyashastra (theatrics and dramaturgy):
Natyashastra Books

From: Natyashastra (English)

(1) Facial coverings used in plays to represent different characters, each designed according to specific character traits.[1]

From: Abhinaya-darpana (English)

(1) A publication by Gordon Craig from 1900, focusing on the theatrical element of masks in performance art.[2]

Natyashastra refers to both the ancient Indian tradition (shastra) of performing arts, (natya—theatrics, drama, dance, music), as well as the name of a Sanskrit work dealing with these subjects. It also teaches the rules for composing Dramatic plays (nataka), construction and performance of Theater, and Poetic works (kavya).

The concept of Mask in local and regional sources

History Books

The keyphrase "Mask" relates to Yeats's theory of connections to identities, signifies an item obscuring one's identity, and symbolizes a facade concealing true emotions or self, highlighting complexities of individuality and perception.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) A facade or covering that conceals the true identity or emotions of a person.[3] (2) Yeats's theory that every passionate individual is connected to past historical or imaginary identities.[4] (3) An item that the speaker is about to put on, intended to obscure their identity.[5]

The concept of Mask in scientific sources

Science Books

The keyphrase "Mask" signifies a precautionary measure that gained significant search interest on Google Trends amid the COVID-19 pandemic, especially following the confirmation of Malaysia's first case, highlighting its relevance in health and safety practices.

Significance in Scientific journals, articles, etc.:

From: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences

(1) A precautionary measure and item that was searched for on Google Trends during the pandemic, particularly after the first COVID-19 case was confirmed in Malaysia.[6]

This section includes scientific research in the field of healthcare, often involving traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha and Holistic health. It includes papers from scientific journals classified as either original, clinical or experimental research, review articles or case reports.

Plural form: Masks.