Peter Berger writes, 'It seems plausible that folly and fools, like religion and magic, meet some deeply rooted needs in human society.' For this reason, clowning is often considered an important part of training as a physical performance discipline, partly because tricky subject matter can be dealt with, but also because it requires a high level of risk and play in the performer. Unlike court jesters, clowns have traditionally served a socio-religious and psychological role, and traditionally the roles of priest and clown have been held by the same persons.

The most ancient clowns have been found in the Fifth Dynasty of Egypt, around 2400 BC. Through the centuries, clowns have continued to play significant roles in society, evolving alongside changing cultural norms and artistic expressions. Their performances can elicit a range of emotions, from humor and laughter to fear and discomfort, reflecting complex societal and psychological dimensions. However, clowns have also played roles in theater and folklore, like the court jesters of the Middle Ages and the jesters and ritual clowns of various indigenous cultures. The most recognisable clowns are those that commonly perform in the circus, characterized by colorful wigs, red noses, and oversized shoes. Clowns have a varied tradition with significant variations in costume and performance. A clown is a person who performs comedy and arts in a state of open-mindedness using physical comedy, typically while wearing distinct makeup or costuming and reversing folkway-norms.

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