Grotesque Humor explores why we laugh at the disgusting, examining the role of the grotesque and discomfort in humor across literature and performance. This literary collection of essays argues that these elements aren't just for laughs; they challenge social norms and provoke critical thought. The book highlights how artists use the grotesque to expose hypocrisy and address difficult topics, revealing humor's potential as social commentary. Understanding why we find discomfort funny provides insights into our psychological boundaries.
The book begins by establishing the historical context of the grotesque, tracing its evolution and use in comedy. It introduces key concepts like abjection and transgression to explain their function within humor. Analyzing literary works of satire, dark comedy, and absurdism, the book examines how authors use unsettling imagery to create humor.
Moving into performance art, it dissects plays and stand-up routines that employ shock value and audience discomfort. Ultimately, Grotesque Humor argues that the strategic use of the grotesque is a powerful method of engaging with power structures and cultural values. It demonstrates that humor born from the repulsive can catalyze questioning and re-evaluating our perceptions, elevating the study of humor to a level of serious intellectual inquiry and demonstrating its capacity to drive social and political change.
