Journal Article

Decoding Laughter

Aldawli, Faisal Ali Ahmed

2024

Overview

Mark Twain's celebrated novel The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn has long been recognized not only for its profound socio-cultural critique but also for its intricate and varied deployment of humor. This research paper aims to provide a linguistic study of the humor mechanisms Twain employs in his masterpiece. It systematically categorizes the various humor devices and elements found within the text, grounding its framework in recent scholarly contributions to the fields of humor research and Twain criticism. The study critically articulates how Twain integrates humor within the fabric of the novel, underscoring its function and significance beyond mere entertainment. The paper determines that Twain employs numerous techniques such as irony, satire, hyperbole, understatement, burlesque, parody, wordplay, hoaxes, pranks, jokes, and riddles to evoke humor and fulfill his thematic intentions. It concludes that Twain seamlessly interweaves these techniques into the tapestry of the novel, fostering a symbiotic relationship between humor and thematic development. In doing so, Twain not only entertains readers but also delivers powerful social commentary and crafts complex character portrayals. The analysis reveals the integral role of Twain's humor in reinforcing the novel's enduring impact and contributes to a greater understanding of its narrative sophistication and Twain's thematic objectives.

• Publisher: جامعة الزيتونة الدولية
• Subject: أساليب الفكاهة / الروايات الأمريكية / النقد الأدبي