Second Nature: Comic Performance and Philosophy

The book explores the comic act as an expressive and performative act that precedes philosophical conceptualisation, focusing on Bergson, philosophy, and the body. It offers a theoretical and practice-based framework for students, scholars, and practitioners in philosophy, literary studies, theatre and performance studies, and comedy studies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 270 pages
Publication date: 16 November 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The study of the comic is a critical intervention that explores how the comic act is also an expressive and performative act that precedes philosophical conceptualisation. The book, "Bergson, Philosophy, and the Body: The Comic Act as Expressive and Performative," puts Bergson, philosophy, and the body at the centre of its investigation to explore different aspects of the field, from the history and philosophy of comedy to film and psychoanalysis. The volume develops a theoretical and practice-based framework that will be a valuable resource for students, scholars, and practitioners alike in the fields of philosophy, literary studies, theatre and performance studies, and comedy studies.

The book brings together a diverse range of contributors, including Caterina Angela Agus, Fred Dalmasso, Lisabeth During, Xavier Escribano, Giovanni Fusetti, Davide Giovanzana, Josephine Gray, María J. Ortega Máñez, Meg Mumford, Jean-Michel Rabaté, Carolyn Shapiro, and Lisa Trahair. Each contributor brings their unique perspective and expertise to the discussion, contributing to the richness and diversity of the volume.

One of the key themes of the book is the relationship between the comic act and philosophical conceptualisation. The authors argue that the comic act is not merely a form of entertainment but also a means of expressing and exploring philosophical ideas. They explore how the comic act can be used to challenge and critique philosophical assumptions and to develop new philosophical perspectives.

The book also examines the history and philosophy of comedy. It traces the development of comedy from ancient times to the present day, highlighting the different forms and styles of comedy that have emerged. The authors discuss the social, cultural, and political contexts in which comedy has been produced and consumed, and the ways in which comedy has been used to challenge and subvert power.

In addition to the historical and philosophical aspects of comedy, the book also explores the relationship between the comic act and film and psychoanalysis. It examines how the comic act has been used in film to convey meaning and emotion, and how psychoanalysis has been used to understand the psychological mechanisms behind the comic act. The authors discuss the ways in which the comic act can be used to explore the human psyche and to address social and psychological issues.

The book also includes a series of practical exercises and case studies that illustrate the theoretical and practice-based framework developed in the volume. These exercises and case studies provide students and practitioners with hands-on experience of applying the framework to real-world situations.

Overall, "Bergson, Philosophy, and the Body: The Comic Act as Expressive and Performative" is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the study of the comic. It brings together a diverse range of perspectives and expertise, and provides a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the field. Whether you are a student, scholar, or practitioner, this book will help you to develop your understanding of the comic act and to apply it to your own work and studies.

Weight: 558g
Dimension: 158 x 235 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786615091