What's So Funny: Theories of Comedy

Humor is not easy to define. What's funny and what's not can vary depending upon an individual's psychology, their experiences in life and their cultural background. Even between cultures that are very similar--think England and the US--humor can vary considerably. Figuring it all out is difficult, but if you're planning on writing comedy yourself or just want to experience it at a deeper level, a bit of explanation is in order. Theories of Comedy: Why Things Are Funny takes a look at what makes some things funny, some things not and where they're almost always one person laughing in a room full of people who are, for the most part, not amused.

Understanding comedy is important not only for comedy writers. It's important for anyone who wants a more meaningful appreciation for the entertainment they love. Some of the best comedy, in fact, happens in films and other media that are otherwise not funny at all and this book helps to explain complex concepts--context and timing, in this case--that explain why that is. From silly slapstick to the most sophisticated wit, this book takes a look at why some things make us laugh, why some things don't and why what does and what doesn't varies so wildly from one person to the next, one culture to the next and even one generation to the next. Comedy can get very complex, and this book helps you sort through it all.