The Italian national theater is known for its longevity. It was a source of
inspiration for many later theatrical schools. Behind the success of the Italian
national comedy researchers underline the use of all special theatrical forms,
such as the masks. Masks are considered to be one of the most complex
theatrical forms of commedia dell’arte. The article examines the basis of mask
formation (rituals, Atellan farces, Greek tragedy) identifying its functions in
the Italian National Theater, as well as demonstrating the development of the
mask at the historical and psychological levels.