Because I Tell a Joke or Two

by Stephen Wagg (Editor)

Because I Tell a Joke or Two explores the complex relationship between comedy and the social differences of class, region, age, gender, sexuality, ethnicity and nationhood. It shows how comedy has been used to sustain, challenge and to change power relationships in society. The contributors, who include Stephen Wagg, Mark Simpson, Stephen Small, Paul Wells and Frances Williams, offer readings of comedy genres, texts and performers in Britain, the United States and Australia. The collection also includes an interview with the comedian Jo Brand.
Topics addressed
* women in British comedies such as Butterflies and Fawlty Towers
* the life and times of Viz , from Billy the Fish to the Fat Slags
* queer readings of Morecambe and Wise , the male double act
* the Marx brothers and Jewish comedy in the United States
* black radical comedy in Britain
* The Golden Girls , Cheers , Friends and American society.

Genres: Nonfiction

340 pages, Paperback

First published February 12, 1998

Reviews

[Stark]

Good addition to the imaginary critical studies MA in comedy I am half-assedly giving myself.

[Mick Meyers]

Comedy is no laughing matter,but it can be interesting one.insightful essays and chapters on various forms of comedy,interesting opinions on films and series which enjoyable to read also give food for thought.not a dry read which some can be.