Ridicule vs. Humor


Based on the comedies I've seen, heard, and read, I believe the three theories can be used to explain all types of humor felt. The theory of incongruity, for example, explains why the typical punchline jokes are humorous. As the listener, we expect the joke to mean one thing, but suddenly it takes an unexpected turn. This unpredictability, according to the incongruity theory, is why we find the joke funny. The incongruity theory, however, cannot be used to explain everything we find comical. For instance, the incongruity theory cannot explain an audience laughing at jokes or skits which do not make unexpected or unrelated comparisons.

All examples of incongruity are not always funny because sometimes an audience can find comparisons offense. Occasionally, a listener will take a joke as ridicule rather than humor. However, sometimes offensive jokes are funny. For example, in "The Office", most of Michael Scott's jokes are offensive, but the audience still finds his crude statements hilarious. Why are his jokes viewed this way? It is my belief that because no one in the office agrees with Michael Scott's racist and sexist views, the audience can find his words funny. In other words, Michael Scott being the only one making the rude comments ensures the show is not a bashing of one's race and/or sex. Instead of laughing at whatever people Michael Scott is making fun of, the audience is laughing at Michael Scott's ridiculous character. 

Comments

  1. Shane HerronSeptember 7, 2018 at 9:53 AM

    Is part of the fun that we see Scott trying to make others laugh, but making himself the object of laughter. It's as if his attempt at superiority backfired on him.

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