Response to Alex's Post
Friends and the Three Theories of Humor
The comedy TV show, Friends, is definitely a great example of a piece of comedy that utilizes the three theories of humor throughout all episodes of the show. I definitely agree that the show is hilarious and likely makes people laugh from a combination of these three theories. First, I agree with the point made that Chandler Bing’s humor and jokes throughout the show are an example of the superiority theory. I have definitely noticed throughout all of the episodes that Chandler adds little side comments and jokes to make himself seem higher up than everyone else. There are even times that the other characters comment on Chandler’s sarcastic remarks. One example I found of his humor being an example of the superiority theory is when Chandler is on the phone and says, “I got her machine”. Joey responds by asking, “Her answering machine?”, to which Chandler replies, “No, interestingly enough her leaf blower picked up”. This sarcasm is Chandler’s way of seeming above Joey in knowing that obviously it was an answering machine, and Joey is below him for thinking otherwise. I also agree that the relief theory is used to downplay serious events on the show that can actually happen to people in real life. I think this is a great way that the show utilizes humor, because after difficult life events, like break ups, comedy can be very helpful in downplaying tough situations. I think this is somewhat realistic because throughout hard times in people’s lives, friends and family may bring up a joke to break the tension and bring some joy into the situation. The point made about laughter truly being the best medicine is very accurate, and I agree laughing can make anyone feel better during hard times. Lastly, Phoebe’s character can definitely relate to the incongruity theory because most of her statements are very odd and out of place, but that is what makes her so funny. I also think her character could be an example of the superiority theory as well. This is because sometimes Phoebe’s actions may seem almost childish and not what most people would do in situations, so we feel above her and that we are better than her in certain aspects. Many quirky characters in TV shows could either be seen as an aspect of the incongruity theory or the superiority theory. I definitely agree that Friends appeals to all types of humor and that is why it is so popular among people.
Chandler is interesting in that he seems most ready to laugh both at others and at himself. I wonder if you agree with that or why you think some see him as pompous and others seem him as self-deprecating?
ReplyDeleteAwesome post! I especially liked where you talked about how relief theory is applied to life events because that's such a universal response to tough situations. This idea can be applied to so many other comedy shows and would be interesting to analyze for the upcoming essay.
ReplyDeleteYou make a powerful argument against the claim that the audience's humor of Chandler is due solely to the Relief Theory. I was ready to except this claim as fact until I read your post and found you provided a well reasoned and constructed counterclaim. I now better understand why one can argue his sarcastic remarks could be part of the Superiority Theory. However, is it the audience who find Chandler's sarcastic remarks laughable by feeling superior or is it Chandler himself? Maybe, the humor Chandler feels is part of the Superiority Theory and the humor the audience feels is more closely related to the Relief Theory?
ReplyDeleteIt does seem like there's a genuine debate about what makes Chandler funny: is he a self-deprecating sad sack or an arrogant jerk? Or both?
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