The essayists in this volume chronicle a complex history and draw attention to the scope of multimedia humor—from the earliest glint of irony and humor in descriptions of sixteenth- and seventeenth-century exploration to the sharp comedy of contemporary film, television, and stand-up routines. The result is an undeniable argument for the central role that humor plays in the development of an American culture shaped by the diverse voices that gained attention through print and electronic media. We have a strong case here that comedy is neither easy nor slight. This collection helps set the foundation for a greater appreciation of humor's influence in American society.
Michael J. Kiskis, Elmira College What's So Funny? Humor in American Culture is the book we've all been waiting for, and Nancy Walker is the hbest possible person to give us this volume. She presents us with the essential collection of erudite essays—essays that are themselves witty and entertaining—so that we know where American humor originates and where it's going.
Regina Barreca, author of They Used to Call Me Snow White, But I Drifted, editor of The Penguin Book of Women's Humor The wide-ranging pieces of various scholars in What's So Funny provide fine answers to the frank question posed by the title, but the cogent and lucid introduction by Nancy Walker probably does it best.
Cameron C. Nickels, James Madison University, editor of To Wit The extracts are well-chosen, and provide a tantalizing but satisfying glimpse of the breadth and depth of the subject. They also provide a good sense of the way in which humorous forms have been integral to the American experience.
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