Bawdy comedy

Definition

Bawdy comedy is a form of humor characterized by its sexual innuendos, crude jokes, and irreverent treatment of social norms. This genre often pushes the boundaries of acceptable behavior, using vulgarity to elicit laughter and provoke thought about human desires and relationships. In this context, it serves not just as entertainment but also as a vehicle for social critique and reflection on the follies of human nature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bawdy comedy in 'The Miller's Tale' employs humor to challenge societal values around marriage and fidelity, highlighting human flaws through outrageous situations.
2. The character of Absolon represents the foolish lover archetype, whose misguided attempts at romance provide a humorous lens on lust and desire.
3. The tale features explicit sexual innuendos, particularly in the interactions between the characters, which serve to entertain while also critiquing social norms regarding sexuality.
4. The use of physical comedy, such as the scene where Nicholas tricks Absolon, showcases how bawdy elements are intertwined with slapstick humor to amplify the comedic effect.
5. The ending of 'The Miller's Tale' exemplifies the chaotic nature of bawdy comedy, with a blend of humor and moral ambiguity that leaves the audience questioning conventional morals.

Review Questions

• How does bawdy comedy in 'The Miller's Tale' reflect societal attitudes towards marriage and infidelity?
  • 'The Miller's Tale' employs bawdy comedy to highlight the absurdities and contradictions within societal views on marriage. The characters engage in deceitful behavior that undermines traditional values, showcasing how lust often overpowers loyalty. This comedic approach allows Chaucer to critique these societal norms while entertaining the audience with humor that exposes human folly.
• In what ways do the characters in 'The Miller's Tale' embody the principles of bawdy comedy through their actions and dialogue?
  • Characters like Absolon and Nicholas embody bawdy comedy through their outrageous actions and suggestive dialogue. Absolon's desperate attempts to woo Alison lead to ridiculous situations filled with sexual innuendo, while Nicholas's clever manipulations add layers of irony and absurdity. Their interactions highlight the humorous yet critical perspective on romantic pursuits and the consequences of unchecked desire.
• Evaluate how Chaucer's use of bawdy comedy serves both as entertainment and as a commentary on human nature in 'The Miller's Tale'.
  • Chaucer skillfully blends bawdy comedy with social commentary in 'The Miller's Tale', using humor not just for laughs but also to provoke deeper reflection on human behavior. The outrageous scenarios expose the characters' flaws, revealing a truth about desire and deception that resonates with audiences. By making his readers laugh at the characters' follies, Chaucer encourages them to consider the moral implications of their actions while embracing the chaotic nature of love and lust.

Related terms

Satire: A literary technique that uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize or mock societal flaws, often aiming to promote change.

Farce: A comedic style that relies on exaggerated situations, physical humor, and improbable events to create absurdity and laughter.

Innuendo: An indirect or subtle reference, often of a suggestive or sexual nature, used to imply something without stating it outright.