An outline of humor
 Being a true chronicle from prehistoric ages to the twentieth century

by Unknown

"An Outline of Humor" by Carolyn Wells is a literary examination of humor throughout history, written in the early 20th century. The work presents a chronicle of humorous expressions from prehistoric times to the twentieth century, exploring the evolution of humor through various cultures and eras. The book likely approaches humor through an analytical lens, examining different theories and perspectives on what constitutes humor. The opening of the text sets the stage for this exploration by discussing the nature and challenges of outlining humor. The author emphasizes that humor is inherently elusive and difficult to define, illustrating the complexity and variety of humorous expressions across time periods and cultures. Carolyn Wells outlines different theories regarding the origins of humor, notably referencing Aristotle's ideas and the notion that humor thrives on incongruity and discomfiture. The introduction indicates that the book will provide both a historical overview and various anecdotes or examples related to humor, establishing a comprehensive framework for understanding its development.