Comedy of manners meaning

Comedy of manners definitions

Comedy of manners is a form of comedy that satirizes the manners and affectations of a social class or group. It often focuses on witty dialogue, clever wordplay, and the intricate social interactions of the characters. This genre of comedy emerged in the late 17th century in England and France, and it remains popular in literature, theater, and film.

Characteristics of Comedy of Manners

Comedy of manners typically features characters from the upper class or elite society. These characters are often portrayed as self-absorbed, shallow, and preoccupied with social status. The humor in comedy of manners comes from the characters' absurd behavior, exaggerated reactions, and witty remarks. The dialogue is usually fast-paced, sophisticated, and filled with clever repartee.

Satire and Social Critique

Comedy of manners uses satire to lampoon the conventions and customs of a particular social group. Through humor and irony, this form of comedy exposes the superficiality, hypocrisy, and pretensions of the characters. By highlighting the absurdity of social norms and values, comedy of manners offers a critical commentary on society and human nature.

Theatrical Elements

Comedy of manners is often characterized by its theatricality. The settings are typically elegant and sophisticated, reflecting the world of the upper class. The costumes and manners of the characters are carefully choreographed to emphasize their social standing and aspirations. The plots may revolve around love affairs, social intrigues, and misunderstandings, leading to comedic situations and resolutions.

Notable Works

Several classic works exemplify the comedy of manners genre. Playwrights such as Oscar Wilde, George Bernard Shaw, and Noel Coward have written acclaimed comedies that satirize the aristocracy and bourgeois society. In literature, authors like Jane Austen and Edith Wharton have created memorable characters and sharp-witted dialogues that capture the essence of social comedy.

In conclusion, comedy of manners is a sophisticated and witty form of comedy that sheds light on the manners and mores of a particular social group. Through satire and humor, this genre offers a nuanced perspective on society, human behavior, and the complexities of social interactions.

Comedy of manners Examples

1. She expertly used comedy of manners to satirize the upper class in her novel.
2. The playwright employed comedy of manners to highlight the absurdity of societal norms.
3. The comedy of manners in the movie was sharp and witty, drawing in a large audience.
4. The novel is a classic example of comedy of manners, showcasing the humor in social interactions.
5. The characters in the play engage in clever banter, typical of comedy of manners.
6. The film director was praised for his skillful use of comedy of manners in portraying the elite society.
7. The comedy of manners in the TV show provided a lighthearted look at the lives of the wealthy.
8. The novel's comedy of manners highlighted the hypocrisy of the characters' actions.
9. The playwright's witty dialogue exemplified the essence of comedy of manners.
10. The comedy of manners depicted in the play brought a fresh perspective to societal norms.

Most accessed