The Encyclopedia of Humor: A Social History explores the concept of humor in history and modern society in the United States and internationally. This work’s scope encompasses the humor of children, adults, and even nonhuman primates throughout the ages, from crude jokes and simple slapstick to sophisticated word play and ironic parody and satire. As an academic social history, it includes the perspectives of a wide range of disciplines, including sociology, child development, social psychology, life style history, communication, and entertainment media. Readers will develop an understanding of the importance of humor as it has developed globally throughout history and appreciate its effects on child and adult development, especially in the areas of health, creativity, social development, and imagination.
Review
— A. I. Piper ― CHOICE Published On: 2015-01-01
As a print book converted to an electronic incarnation, the product succeeds very well. The extensive, interrelated e-searching of subjects makes it easier to use, in a much more sophisticated way, than the print. And for this price it is a tremendous bargain. This reference will serve social science scholars who are serious about humor. — Cheryl LaGuardia ― Library Journal Published On: 2014-12-02
“A thorough survey of humor, Attardo′s two-volume text defines and examines the far reaches of comedy. …As a reference base, the work maintains multinational, multiethnic awareness … A well-balanced study of the subject, Attardo′s encyclopedia belongs in most academic and public libraries.” — Mary Ellen Snodgrass ― Booklist Published On: 2014-09-01
“Mark Twain famously said, “The truth is the funniest joke ever told.” But this raises an important question: What the heck is so humorous about humor, anyway? Among the 300-plus signed entries in the far-ranging work are a triad of articles that attempt to answer that very query. …Entries are uniformly well written and researched, each concluding with cross-references and a further reading list. …VERDICT: Laughter is the best medicine, and there is a good deal present here, as examples abound. Entertaining as well as informative, this is one of those rare reference books that warrants reading from cover to cover. Strongly recommended for purchase by public and academic libraries.” — Michael Bemis ― Library Journal-Starred Review Published On: 2014-09-05
Product details
- Publisher : SAGE Publications, Inc; 1st edition (March 25, 2014)
- Language : English
- Hardcover : 984 pages
- ISBN-10 : 141299909X
- ISBN-13 : 978-1412999090
- Item Weight : 6.5 pounds
- Dimensions : 8.99 x 3.42 x 11.31 inches