Harlequin Spanish !exclusive! -

The character of (a Spanish Harlequin variant) became a staple. In plays like Les Saltimbanques , the Harlequin was always coded as Spanish—dark skin, fiery temper, and a talent for deception. This was not accidental. The French bourgeoisie used the Harlequin Spanish to contrast their "civilized" restraint with what they saw as Spain’s "primitive" passion.