Natasha Bynum St.

John AP Language 28 January 2014

Although many might disagree with Alain de Bottoms claim that a humorist conveys the messages that might be dangerous to state directly, and claim they simply entertain, many forums of comedy say things that would not be received well if said in a serious way. Comedy has been a mask for criticism and moral messages for centuries. In both Shakespeare plays, and many fantasy novels, the fool is ironically portrayed as the boldest and wisest character. Through riddles and anecdotes, the fool can relay important insight to the situation at hand that, if said by any other character could be considered treasonous. A classic symbol of sly wisdom, the fool is a quintessential example of humor that carries a dangerous message in literature. Modern satire popular in the mass media, like magazine The New Yorker, and shows like Saturday Night Live, and South Park all touch upon taboo topics in politics, history, and todays culture. Even though the first amendment gives everyone the right to free speech, some of these topics, if not delivered in a humorous manor, would be considered distasteful, or even vulgar. The crude depiction of a president, for instance, if done well, can make an entire room laugh, whereas serious criticism of an elected official could incite a heated argument between differing opinions. These absurd imitations and exaggerated cartoons express the flaws and corruption in every political group that many

might not see due to a defensive loyalty to their own party. South park has dedicated entire episodes to major taboo issues like 9/11 and the holocaust, making light these tragedies in history, through the daring portrayals of the mass cultures reaction to these events. While these skits are hilarious, they also make obvious the irrationality of the rationale behind these events. The writers of South Park manage to make insensitive jokes, all the while crudely mimicking the opinions of every viewer that so dearly loves its ludicrous characters, and witty lines. The seeming insensitivity, yet blatant truth of these messages would never be aired on national television if they were not presented in a comical fashion. But big issues and moral complexes arent the only dangerous messages to state directly. Many comedians who make a living off of joke telling have entire sets in which they employ their terribly traumatizing childhood hardships. Kevin Hart, an upcoming comedian has a special entitled Laugh at My Pain, in which he tells a story of his crack addicted father throwing him the deep end of a swimming pool to teach him how to swim. A seemingly intense and heart wrenching story that would normally lead people to suggest serious psychiatric help, provokes laughter and encouragement from the entire audience. For some, like Kevin Hart, making light of personal, but relatable plights not only helps resolve their own haunted thoughts, but also assures the similar, unspeakable horrors of others. Whether it be touchy personal information, intense and controversial events in history, or simply a criticism of someone, these topics are often better received when delivered through comedy.