Slapstick

Slapstick is a style of humor that involves exaggerated physical activity which exceeds the boundaries of normal physical comedy. The term arises from a device that was used in theater during the 19th century, known as a "slap stick". This style of humor is often associated with silent film era, as physical humor could be relied upon to engage audiences without the need for sound or dialogue.

History

The term "slapstick" comes from the battacchio or "slap stick", a device used in the Commedia dell'arte, a form of theatre that began in Italy in the mid-16th century. The "slap stick" consists of two thin slats of wood, which make a "slap" sound when struck together. Actors may use this sound in physical comedy, such as a clown using the slapstick to hit another clown.

The slapstick comic style was prevalent in the early days of Hollywood and silent films, where comedians such as Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton, and Laurel and Hardy made it famous. These actors are still considered icons in the field of slapstick.

Characteristics

Slapstick is characterized by its broad humor, absurd situations, and vigorous, usually violent action. The physical humor in slapstick derives from its exaggerated physical stunts, lots of pratfalls, tripping, falling from heights, etc. The slapstick style also includes humor derived from mime routines, such as a character being hit by an unseen object, or a character's exaggerated reaction to a minor event.

Slapstick has remained a popular comedic style, and continues to be used in many different forms of media, including film, television, and live performance. It is often used in children's television programming, where the physical humor can be enjoyed by young audiences.

Influence

Slapstick comedy has had a major influence on modern comedy that can be seen in both movies and television shows. Many popular television shows, such as The Three Stooges, Tom and Jerry, and Looney Tunes, use slapstick as their main form of humor.

See also

• Physical comedy
• Visual gag
• Comedy film
• Silent comedy

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Slapstick

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  Charlie Chaplin in "His New Job"
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  Bic instrument
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  Humorous image from 1910
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  Fred Karno
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  Pie in the face