Bawdy humor

Definition

Bawdy humor refers to a style of comedy that relies on lewd, vulgar, or sexual themes and language, often pushing the boundaries of what is socially acceptable. This type of humor is prevalent in various forms of literature and entertainment, serving to provoke laughter while also challenging societal norms around sex and propriety. In literary works, bawdy humor can reveal character traits, cultural attitudes, and the complexities of human relationships.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bawdy humor has roots in ancient literature and continues to be a significant element in works from the Middle Ages to modern times.
2. In medieval texts like 'The Canterbury Tales,' bawdy humor serves as a tool for social commentary, reflecting the attitudes towards sexuality and morality of the time.
3. The use of bawdy humor can reveal deeper truths about characters, as it often exposes their desires and insecurities in a humorous way.
4. Bawdy humor can create a sense of camaraderie among audiences, as shared laughter over taboo subjects can break down social barriers.
5. While some may find bawdy humor offensive, it often plays an essential role in challenging societal norms and provoking thought about sexuality and propriety.

Review Questions

• How does bawdy humor function as a social commentary in selected tales?
  • Bawdy humor functions as social commentary by using lewd or vulgar jokes to critique societal norms surrounding sexuality and morality. In tales where this humor is prevalent, characters often express their desires and frustrations through sexual innuendos or risqué situations. This not only entertains the audience but also prompts them to reflect on the hypocrisy or double standards within their own society regarding sexual behavior.
• Discuss the relationship between bawdy humor and character development in selected tales.
  • Bawdy humor significantly impacts character development by revealing deeper aspects of personalities through their use of crude jokes or situations. Characters who frequently engage in bawdy humor may be portrayed as more liberated or adventurous, while others might appear repressed or hypocritical. This contrast allows readers to understand the complexities of each character's motivations and societal roles, highlighting how they navigate personal desires within the constraints of societal expectations.
• Evaluate the role of bawdy humor in shaping cultural attitudes towards sexuality during the time these tales were written.
  • Bawdy humor plays a crucial role in shaping cultural attitudes towards sexuality by challenging established norms and providing a platform for discussions that might otherwise be considered taboo. By incorporating sexual themes into literature, writers invite audiences to confront their views on sexuality openly. This was particularly significant during times when such topics were often suppressed. Bawdy humor not only entertained but also fostered an environment where societal expectations regarding sex could be questioned and critiqued, reflecting evolving attitudes in both literature and culture.

Related terms

Double Entendre: A figure of speech that has a double meaning, often used in bawdy humor to convey a sexual connotation while maintaining an innocent facade.

Satire: A genre that uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize or mock societal norms and human behaviors, often overlapping with bawdy humor in its themes.

Farce: A comedic genre characterized by exaggerated situations, physical humor, and absurdity, frequently incorporating elements of bawdy humor.