Double entendres

Definition

Double entendres are phrases or expressions that have two meanings, with one being more straightforward and the other often more suggestive or risqué. They are commonly used in comedic writing, allowing for clever wordplay and humor that can appeal to different audiences on various levels. This technique is especially prevalent in farce, where exaggerated situations and absurdity provide fertile ground for layered meanings.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Double entendres often rely on cultural references or social contexts to enhance their impact, making them particularly effective in comedy.
2. In farce, double entendres can contribute to misunderstandings and chaotic situations, driving the plot forward while adding comedic value.
3. Writers use double entendres to create tension and release through laughter, as audiences pick up on the dual meanings.
4. This technique allows characters to reveal more about themselves through what they say and how others interpret it, adding depth to dialogue.
5. The clever use of double entendres can also help to critique societal norms or behaviors without being overtly offensive.

Review Questions

• How do double entendres enhance comedic elements in farce?
  • Double entendres heighten the comedic aspects of farce by introducing layers of meaning that can lead to misunderstandings and humorous situations. Characters might say one thing while implying something entirely different, which can create absurd scenarios that amplify the chaos typical of farce. This clever wordplay keeps audiences engaged as they catch the dual meanings and appreciate the humor in the characters' interactions.
• In what ways do double entendres reveal character traits within farcical narratives?
  • Double entendres serve as a tool for character development in farce by showcasing how characters think and communicate. A character's choice to use a double entendre can indicate their wit, cunning, or even naivety, depending on how well they understand the implications of their words. As other characters react to these layered statements, it allows the audience to gain insight into their relationships and dynamics, contributing to the overall comedic effect.
• Evaluate the role of double entendres in reflecting societal norms and values within the context of farce.
  • Double entendres play a significant role in reflecting societal norms and values by allowing writers to critique them subtly. In farce, where exaggeration is key, these phrases can highlight hypocrisy or absurdity in social behavior while still entertaining the audience. By engaging with these layered meanings, writers not only provoke laughter but also encourage audiences to think critically about the underlying messages regarding relationships, power dynamics, and societal expectations.

Related terms

Wordplay: A literary technique that exploits the multiple meanings of words or similar-sounding words for humorous or rhetorical effect.

Puns: A form of wordplay that involves using a word with multiple meanings or similar-sounding words to create humor.

Satire:

A genre of literature that uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize or mock social norms, politics, or individuals.