English Comedy - by Allan Rodway (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

English Comedy: Its Role and Nature from Chaucer to the Present Day offers an in-depth literary critique of English comedy, highlighting its evolution from the medieval period to modern times. The book is not a mere historical account but a critical exploration of the genre, aiming to deepen the appreciation for comic works that transcend their time. Unlike many comedies that are tied to contemporary issues and fade with their era, this study focuses on the works that stand the test of time, like Dryden's Absalom and Achitophel. The book addresses common misconceptions by distinguishing comedy from farce and other forms of entertainment. Its central thesis is that comedy, while often dismissed as a trivial form, serves important societal functions by critiquing and satirizing societal norms, offering both a reflection and a critique of its era. The study examines how comedy is shaped by and responds to social tensions, exploring its potential for both progressive and conservative social commentary.

The structure of the book is divided into several parts, each serving a distinct purpose. Part I focuses on the theory of comedy, establishing a framework for the subsequent analysis. It distinguishes between the concepts of laughter and comedy, and defines key terms for understanding comic works. Part II applies these theoretical ideas to different literary periods, offering a comparative analysis of representative comic works. By doing so, it offers a critical evaluation that goes beyond historical context to explore the universal and enduring qualities of comedy. The book emphasizes the role of the comic writer, who, by depicting the absurdities of society, often reflects a larger societal critique. Through this, the author aims to provide readers with both a theoretical understanding and a personal appreciation of the masterpieces of English comedy, demonstrating how these works remain relevant despite their period-specific origins.

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press's mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1975.