Laughing Histories: From the Renaissance Man to the Woman of Wit

Laughing Histories explores the multiple meanings of laughter in early modern Europe, revealing how it was inflected by gender and social power. It uses fascinating case studies of individuals such as Benvenuto Cellini, Madame de Sévigné, and Samuel Pepys to explore how social rules constrained laughter and how it played out in relations between the sexes.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 06 June 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Laughing Histories is a groundbreaking work that delves into the realm of laughter in early modern Europe, shedding light on how it was shaped by gender and social power. In the words of Jane Austen's heroine Elizabeth Bennet, "I dearly love a laugh," emphasizing the universal appeal of humor. However, the esteemed Earl of Chesterfield suggested that only the mob would burst into laughter, while the gentleman should maintain a polite smile. This contrasting perspective raises intriguing historical questions: How did social norms confine laughter? Did the highest elites truly laugh less than others? How did laughter manifest in relationships between men and women?

To unravel these mysteries, Laughing Histories presents captivating case studies of individuals such as the Renaissance artist Benvenuto Cellini, the French aristocrat Madame de Sévigné, and the rising civil servant and diarist Samuel Pepys. Through these diverse accounts, the book unveils the multifaceted meanings of laughter, spanning from the courtly realms to taverns and streets, within the intricate tapestry of history.

Laughing Histories offers a rich and nuanced exploration of emotions, cultural history, gender history, and literature, making it an invaluable resource for readers with a keen interest in these fields. It sheds light on the complex interplay between laughter, power, and social dynamics, providing a deeper understanding of the human experience across different periods and cultures.

Weight: 380g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032162072