Subject
Comedy Books
Best books
Henri Bergson
Laughter: An Essay on the Meaning of the Comic
"Laughter: An Essay on the Meaning of the Comic" by Henri Bergson is a collection of three essays first published in 1900. This groundbreaking philosophical work explores why humans laugh and what makes things funny. Bergson examines laughter as a distinctly human and social phenomenon, arguing that comedy arises from rigidity interrupting life's natural flexibility. He investigates how laughter serves as a moral corrective, forcing people to recognize their vices and conform to social norms. Through analyzing comic situations, movements, and characters, Bergson develops a scientific method for understanding the laws governing humor.
George Meredith
An Essay on Comedy and the Uses of the Comic Spirit
"An Essay on Comedy and the Uses of the Comic Spirit" by George Meredith is a scholarly exploration of comic literature and its relevance to human society, written in the late 19th century. The text delves into the complexities and rarefied nature of true comedy, discussing the societal conditions that foster the comic spirit and the challenges faced by comic poets. Meredith contrasts various comedic traditions, analyzing the societal structures that both stifle and illuminate the comedic experience. The opening of the essay begins by outlining the rarity of true comedies, suggesting that many recognized as such may not fulfill their potential. Meredith introduces the reader to the idea that a rich intellectual environment is necessary for comedy to flourish, while he criticizes the dichotomy between "non-laughers," who reject humor altogether, and "over-laughers," who laugh inappropriately. He argues that the true comic spirit serves as a critical lens on society, illuminating folly and moral failures while offering insight into the human condition. By invoking the works of great comic poets like Moliere and illustrating the evolution of comedic styles, the opening positions comedy as both a mirror and a critique of social norms, laying the foundation for a deeper exploration of its functions in later sections.
John Lydgate
The Disguising at Hertford
"The Disguising at Hertford" by John Lydgate is a verse play written around the early 15th century, likely during the late medieval period. This theatrical work explores themes of marriage and domestic discord through a humorous lens, showcasing the trials and tribulations faced by husbands under the rule of their strong-willed wives. Set against the backdrop of royal festivities at Hertford Castle, the play is a lively examination of gender dynamics and the nature of power in marital relationships. The plot unfolds as a group of husbands presents a complaint to the king, expressing their grievances about the domineering behavior of their wives. Each husband shares his amusing woes, illustrating the challenges of marriage and the social expectations placed upon both men and women. The wives, responding with equal fervor, assert their own perspectives and rights, adding a layer of complexity to the dialogue. The king, acting as an impartial judge, refrains from delivering an immediate judgment, prompting a deeper exploration of the societal norms surrounding marriage and authority. Ultimately, the play’s resolution invites the audience to reflect on the balance of power within domestic life, wrapped in the comedic exchanges between the characters.
Corbyn Morris
An Essay towards Fixing the True Standards of Wit, Humour, Railery, Satire, and Ridicule (1744)
"An Essay towards Fixing the True Standards of Wit, Humour, Raillery, Satire, and Ridicule" by Corbyn Morris is a philosophical essay written in the early 18th century. The work aims to clarify the distinctions and meanings of various literary concepts, primarily focusing on wit and humour. Morris seeks to provide precise definitions and examples, critiquing the inadequacies of previous definitions put forth by notable authors like Dryden, Locke, and Addison. The opening of the essay sets the stage for Morris's exploration of these themes by acknowledging the complexity of defining wit and humour. He argues against a mere acceptance of earlier works and emphasizes the necessity for original inquiry to advance literary understanding. Morris also introduces key concepts and offers a comparison of familiar examples from literature that demonstrate the nuances between wit and humour, laying a foundation for his exploration and criticism of established literary figures and definitions. The initial chapters create a compelling narrative that invites readers to consider the nature of these artistic expressions and their relevance in literature and society.
Wilton W. (Wilton Wallace) Blancké
The Dramatic Values in Plautus
"The Dramatic Values in Plautus" by Wilton W. Blancké is a scholarly thesis written in the early 20th century, focusing on the comic playwright Plautus and his misunderstood contributions to drama. The book aims to provide a thorough analysis of Plautine comedy, exploring its structure, themes, critical reception, and the inherent artistic value that has been overlooked or misjudged by past scholars. By examining both the comedic techniques employed by Plautus and the cultural context of his work, Blancké seeks to clarify the poet's true position within the realm of dramatic art. At the start of the thesis, Blancké discusses the longstanding misconceptions surrounding Plautus as both a comic artist and a moral storyteller. He addresses how overreactive criticisms have oscillated between adulation and denigration, highlighting the necessity for a more balanced appreciation of his works. He introduces the idea that Plautus should be understood as primarily an entertainer, crafting plays that catered to the desires of a raucous audience while employing techniques akin to modern farce and slapstick. The opening sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of Plautine comedy, inviting readers to reconsider the merit of laughter within his dramatic methods rather than condemning them for lack of superior artistic intent.
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