Subject
Comic, The Books
Best books
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.
Theodor Lipps
Komik und Humor: Eine Psychologische-Ästhetische Untersuchung
"Komik und Humor: Eine Psychologische-Ästhetische Untersuchung" by Theodor Lipps is a scientific publication written during the late 19th century. The book delves into the psychology and aesthetics of humor and comedy, aiming to analyze various theories surrounding comedic feelings and their impact on human emotion and perception. The opening of the work introduces Lipps' intent to expand on his previously published essays on the psychology of comedy. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the psychological analysis behind comedic effects and proposes to explore general properties and forms of comedy rather than focusing on specific artistic representations or works. Through this analytical approach, Lipps critiques existing theories, particularly Hecker's concept of emotional conflict as a basis for humor, suggesting that the feelings of humor cannot be solely defined by a contest between joy and displeasure. The text sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of comedy, emotion, and aesthetic experience, probing into how various types of comedic phenomena emerge from our psychological states.
Ewald Hecker
Die Physiologie und Psychologie des Lachens und des Komischen. Ein Beitrag zur experimentellen Psychologie für Naturforscher, Philosophen und gebildete Laien.
"Die Physiologie und Psychologie des Lachens und des Komischen" by Ewald Hecker is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. This work explores the physiological and psychological aspects of laughter and humor, aiming to provide an experimental basis for understanding these phenomena. Hecker, who served as a second physician at an institution for mentally ill patients, seeks to bridge physiology and psychology through the lens of humor and laughter. The opening of the book begins with an editor's note addressing the formatting and minor spelling corrections made to the original text. Hecker dedicates his work to his mentor, Dr. Karl Kahlbaum, expressing his gratitude for the support he received during his studies. He clarifies that this book is the culmination of his research into the relationship between physiological responses (like laughter) and their psychological triggers, particularly the comic impulse. He sets out to explore the purpose of laughter and its connections to both physical sensations such as tickling and emotional states, proposing a structured investigation into these topics.
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