Difference Between Muppets and Puppets

Muppets vs Puppets

Puppets and Muppets are not actually different from each other. In a simple way, we can say that a Muppet is actually a kind of puppet. Obviously, they have certain differences and that is why they are categorized separately. Let’s try and figure out what the differences between a Muppet and puppet are.
A puppet is a figure of an object, person, animal, bird, etc. The figures are not limited to a certain type or form or character. They are diverse. They are manipulated by a person called a puppeteer. Puppets are used to put up a puppetry show which is a very ancient form of theatre. Muppets, however, originated in 1954-55. They are also figures used to put up a show but the characters are limited.

The origin of puppets cannot be traced back to one person, one culture, society, or a particular time in history, most certainly not a particular year; whereas Muppets were introduced in 1954-55 by a person named Jim Henson. Muppets were a group of characters which were actually a type of puppet. They were introduced in a show called “The Muppet Show.” “The Muppet Show” is a legal trademark for the characters of the show which were a specific type of puppets. Muppets originated in the United States of America. Puppets have been around for years, and different countries have different types of puppets.

Puppets are so diverse that we cannot actually name the characters. Many countries tell stories of their heroes through this medium. Folklore is also told with the help of puppets. The same puppet can play the role of a king and it can, in another show, play the role of a pauper; whereas, Muppets can be actually named: Kermit the Frog, Elmo, Miss Piggy, etc. They are all trademark figures.
The word “Muppet” was coined by Jim Henson by combining the words “marionette” and “puppet.” The word “puppet” means “doll.” It comes from the French word “poupette.” In the 16th century the application of the word for “moving doll controlled by strings” came into existence. “Poppet” was later on taken over by “puppet.”
Puppets are made of many materials depending upon their form, their use. The names change when you go to different countries. They are of so many varieties that it is hard to list them. Still, some types are: string puppets, rod puppets, paper puppets, tabletop puppets, human arm puppet, and many other varieties. Muppets, though, have different characters, are limited, and can be listed.

Summary:

1.A puppet is a figure of an object or animal or human used to put up a puppet show. Puppets are of many types. 2.Muppets, on the other hand, are a type of puppet. They have different characters not types.
3.Puppets do not have any copyright characters. Muppets have copyright characters of “The Muppet Show.”
4.Muppets originated in the U.S.A in 1954-55. Puppets originated even before the 16th century in many countries.
5.Muppets were introduced by Jim Henson; puppets have not been introduced by any one person.

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