Books in the Routledge Library Editions: Comedy series

Ever since comedies were first performed, the definition of the term `comedy¿ has been debated by both playwrights and critics. Originally published in 1978, this volume does not attempt a precise definition, but reviews the various interpretations that have been put forward through the ages.

First published in 1988, the 19 original essays (and three "Sylvia" cartoons) included in this volume deal with the gender-specific nature of comedy. This pioneering collection observes the creation of women¿s comedy from a wide range of standpoints: political, sociological, psychoanalytical, linguistic, and historical.

First published in 1992, the twenty-one original essays in this volume explore the way women have used humor to break down cultural stereotypes between the genders, using examples from literature and the performing arts.