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Clowns

where does the fear of clowns come from?

By Jerald WilsonPublished 10 months ago 3 min read
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The fear of clowns, known as coulrophobia, can stem from various factors. One reason is the exaggerated makeup that clowns wear, which obscures their true identity and can make them appear unpredictable or deceptive. The oversized shoes and clumsy movements of clowns can also contribute to a sense of unease, as their actions become harder to predict. Additionally, the erratic and mischievous behaviour of clowns can be unsettling, as it creates an atmosphere of uncertainty and unpredictability.

Furthermore, the portrayal of creepy or malevolent clowns in popular culture, such as Pennywise from Stephen King's novel "It" or the Joker from Batman comics, has reinforced negative associations with clowns. These fictional characters, with their dark and sinister traits, have contributed to the negative perception of clowns in general.

The origins of clowns can be traced back to ancient civilizations where comedic performers, known as fools or jesters, entertained people. During the Middle Ages, comedic performances were banned by some authorities, leading to the emergence of secret societies of clowns who performed in disguise to evade the ban. Eventually, the ban was lifted, and clowns regained their place as entertainers, particularly in the circus world.

Famous clowns throughout history, such as Joseph Grimaldi, Charlie Chaplin, Emmett Kelly, and Grock, have left a lasting impact on clowning as an art form. These performers brought joy and laughter to audiences through their unique styles, physical comedy, and ability to connect with people's emotions.

Despite the fear associated with clowns, many clowns today continue to bring laughter and entertainment to various settings, including circuses, amusement parks, schools, malls, and even hospitals. It's important to remember that the fear of clowns is not universal, and many people still enjoy and appreciate the comedic talents of these performers.

The fear of clowns, known as coulrophobia, can stem from various factors. Here are some reasons why clowns can be perceived as scary.

  1. Uncanny appearance: Clowns often wear exaggerated makeup and costumes that hide their true identities. This alteration of their appearance can be unsettling as it obscures their real emotions and intentions. The uncertainty of not knowing what lies behind the painted smile can trigger fear and anxiety.
  2. Unpredictability: Clowns are known for their erratic and mischievous behaviour. Their actions can be unpredictable, and not knowing what they might do next can create a sense of unease. This unpredictability can be particularly unsettling for individuals who prefer structure and predictability.

3. Exaggerated features: Clowns typically have exaggerated features such as oversized shoes, red noses, and colourful attire. These larger-than-life physical attributes can distort their proportions and make them appear clumsy or uncoordinated. The unfamiliarity with their distorted appearance can contribute to the fear response.

4. Negative portrayals: Popular culture has often depicted clowns as villains or creepy characters, reinforcing negative associations. Examples include Pennywise from Stephen King's novel "It" and the Joker from Batman comics and movies. Such portrayals contribute to the perception of clowns as malevolent or deceptive.

5. Personal experiences: Some individuals may have had negative experiences with clowns in their past, such as a traumatic encounter during childhood or witnessing unsettling behaviour from a clown. These personal experiences can create lasting associations between clowns and fear.

It's important to note that not everyone experiences fear or anxiety towards clowns, and some people genuinely enjoy their performances and find them entertaining. Fear of clowns is a specific phobia that affects a subset of individuals.

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About the Creator

Jerald Wilson

"Warning: Reading this blog may cause uncontrollable bursts of laughter, sudden moments of enlightenment, and an overwhelming desire to share it with all your friends. Proceed at your own risk!"

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