Quand une mauvaise traduction tourne à la superstition - Karambolage España - ARTE

The Superstitions of Theater

Introduction to Theater Superstitions

• The narrator shares a personal anecdote about receiving an invitation from a friend, Delphine, to attend a theater premiere in Paris.

• Delphine comments on the narrator's choice of dress, warning that wearing green is considered bad luck in theater due to historical superstitions surrounding Molière.

Molière's Death and Color Myths

• The narrator clarifies misconceptions about Molière’s death, stating he did not die on stage but shortly after performing "Le malade imaginaire" on February 17, 1673.

• Molière collapsed during the performance due to illness and died at home from bronchitis shortly thereafter.

• Contrary to popular belief, Molière was dressed in amaranth red (not green or yellow), which led to confusion in Spanish translations that mistakenly reported he wore yellow.

Historical Context of Color Superstitions

• The misinterpretation of colors has had lasting effects; Spanish actors avoid yellow due to this error.

• Historian Michel Pastourau explains that green was once chemically unstable and toxic when used in costumes, leading to its association with bad luck.

• This toxicity resulted from the dyeing process involving copper oxidation with various substances, making it dangerous for wearers.

Common Theater Practices and Beliefs

• A widespread superstition exists where actors are told "merde" instead of wishing them good luck before performances; this dates back to the 17th century.

• The reasoning behind this practice relates to the number of carriages outside theaters—more excrement indicated more success for performers.

Conclusion: Applause as Protection

• At the end of performances, strong applause is encouraged as it is believed to ward off spirits that may have inhabited the actors' bodies during their performance.