Humor: Its Theory and Technique

Stephen Butler Leacock

Aug 2022 · DigiCat

About this ebook

In 'Humor: Its Theory and Technique,' Stephen Butler Leacock embarks upon a whimsical exploration of the nature and mechanics of humor. He adeptly marries the scholarly with the pleasurable, analyzing humor not only as a form of entertainment but also as a complex social and psychological phenomenon. Within its pages, Leacock meticulously dissects the styles, devices, and situations that give rise to laughter, while integrating these insights within the broader historical and literary context. His prose brims with the same wit and levity that has become synonymous with his work, making for both an instructive and delightful read. Stephen Butler Leacock, a renowned economist, and humorist has cultivated an indelible mark upon early 20th-century literature through his satirical and comedic writings. The impetus for his examination of humor may likely be rooted in his dual appreciation for the empirical study of society and the human condition, as well as for the craft of inciting joy and laughter in his audience. Leacock's academic background and personal proclivities fuse seamlessly in this book, offering a rare and insightful perspective on why humor resonates so deeply with humanity. 'This book beckons those who seek a deeper understanding of the connective tissue between humor and human experience, as well as aspiring writers and aficionados of comedy. Leacock's 'Humor: Its Theory and Technique' is more than a treatise; it's a celebration of laughter's power and a guide for those wishing to master its craft. Endowed with both anecdotal charm and analytical acumen, it promises an engaging journey for readers desiring to appreciate and harness the nuanced art of humor.

About the author

Stephen Butler Leacock (1869-1944) was a distinguished Canadian humorist, economist, and lecturer, celebrated for his light-hearted irony and satirical commentary on social issues. Born on December 30, 1869, in Swanmore, Hampshire, England, he moved to Canada with his family at a young age, which later influenced his writing. Leacock's keen observations of Canadian society are unique for combining humor with serious reflection. He earned his doctorate in political science and later chaired the Department of Economics and Political Science at McGill University from 1908 to 1936. Leacock's contributions to the field of humor are crystallized in his work 'Humor: Its Theory and Technique', in which he meticulously dissects the mechanics and functions of humor, demonstrating its complexity and significance in literature and everyday life. Beyond this, Leacock wrote numerous books, including 'Literary Lapses' and 'Sunshine Sketches of a Little Town', which remain celebrated for their wit and insight. His literary style is characterized by a blend of gentle parody, ludicrous situations, and a narrative voice that charms readers with its understated wit. Leacock was a foundational figure in Canadian literature, and his legacy includes the Stephen Leacock Memorial Medal for Humour, which honors outstanding contributions to Canadian humor writing. His profound understanding of the social fabric of his time, combined with his ability to critique it through humor, makes his work enduringly relevant and academically significant.