Comedy Unit Test

What is sarcasm?

Sarcasm is when an ironic statement is personal.

How new is the satire form of writing?

Satire is one of the oldest literary modes.

At who is satire usually directed?

Satire is usually directed to humans in general or at stereotyped groups of people, but it can be aimed at a specific person too.

Are satirists objective?

Satirists are not objective (do not show both sides).

Why do satirists expose errors and absurdities?

Satirists expose errors and absurdities to point out what we no longer notice and try to change our stance on those things.

Why do satirists use exaggeration?

Satirists use exaggeration to make folly and vice appear ridiculous and therefore unattractive.

Where do stand-up comedians fit into the categories of comedy?

Stand-up comedians are both subversive (because the criticize us) and affirming (because they make us feel good), which makes them a paradox.

What is subversive comedy?

Subversive Comedy tries to irritate and disturb the world rather than divert or entertain it. It criticizes contemporary values and tries to change us rationally.

What often happens to writers who frequently use satires?

Writers who frequently use satires are often misunderstood and get in trouble because their writing goes over people's heads.

Define exaggeration

Exaggeration is when something is extra.

Why are institutions hot-beds of comedy?

Institutions are hot-beds of comedy because they provide a cross-section of social types of people and thus, traits of people.

Define irony

Irony is the device of saying one thing and meaning just the opposite.

What is a hyperbole?

A hyperbole is a wildly extravagant exaggeration.

Define understatement

An understatement is the opposite of an exaggeration and is a form of irony.

Define black humor

Black humor is when a character is trapped in a situation in the beginning of a piece, knows he is trapped, wants out, but can't get out.

With what evidence is comedy always jarring us?

Comedy is always jarring us by showing how far humans fall short of ideal. It exposes humans for what they are in contrast to what they profess to be.

What is comedy associated with?

Comedy is associated with pessimism.

Define Comedy

Comedy is criticism that makes us more critical but leaves us more tolerant.

Comedy is liable to what?

Comedy is liable to change in fashion and taste--to change with the trends and the times.

What is Affirming Comedy?

Affirming Comedy is a type of comedy that tries to laugh the world into better behavior. It affirms our contemporary values. We watch it because we want to feel better.

What function does comedy perform?

Comedy performs a social function. It acts like a social worker trying to make the world get along better.