That part thou, Pisanio, must act for me.
III, 4, 26.
COMEDY OF ERRORS
JUGGLERS.
They say this town is full of cozenage;
As nimble jugglers that deceive the eye.
I, 2, 98.
In mediæval times Jugglers were frequently to be met with at the Court, being well received by an admiring audience. Their entertainment consisted of catching knives, tossing balls and feats of balancing. Such diversions even at the present day evoke unstinted applause, especially if practised by a Cinquevalli. The word is derived from the Latin joculare, to jest; the early meaning, which is now obsolete, denoted one who entertains or amuses people by shows, songs, buffoonery and tricks. It also bore the meaning of magician, wizard, or sorcerer.
MOUNTEBANK.