Farce by Jessica Milner Davis (9780765808875)

Description - Farce by Jessica Milner Davis

Here is a book that briefly guides the reader through the history of the European theatre, pointing out the important tradition embodied in farce and its humble performers. The emphasis is upon the discussion of actual farce-texts, which range from Plautus to Stoppard, from fairground knockabout to the well-oiled machines of Labiche and Feydeau. Theory is illuminated by analysis of the mechanical structures of the plays themselves. Psychological theories of laughter and joking are also brought to bear upon the current trend as "social therapy for over-civilized societies."

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