The Poetics and Politics of Invective Humor: Disparagement in Contemporary Female-Led US Sitcoms

In contemporary US-American media culture, vituperation, disparagement, and debasement have become prevalent, and Katja Schulze's study explores the formal principles, media-specific realizations, and cultural work of disparagement in female-led situation comedies. It uncovers how these shows stage humor as mass-mediated deprecation, a signifying practice with its poetics and politics.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 300 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2022
Publisher: Transcript Verlag

Vituperation, disparagement, and debasement have become integral components of mainstream discourse within contemporary US-American media culture. In order to delve deeper into a specific televisual comedy genre, Katja Schulze conducts an in-depth exploration of the formal principles, media-specific realizations, and cultural significance of disparagement in contemporary female-led situation comedies. This study then unveils broader patterns of (gender-based) invective strategies and conventions that define the dynamic nature of this comedic genre. Through the analysis of popular sitcoms such as Parks and Recreation, Mike & Molly, and the revival of hit-sitcom Roseanne, Schulze highlights how these shows are able to stage humor as mass-mediated deprecation, a practice that possesses its own poetics and politics.

Disparagement plays a significant role in shaping the comedic landscape of contemporary female-led situation comedies. These shows often employ various forms of ridicule, mockery, and derision to critique societal norms, gender roles, and power dynamics. By highlighting the flaws and shortcomings of characters, they challenge the prevailing notions of femininity, masculinity, and heteronormativity. Through their witty and astute observations, these comedies offer a critical commentary on the social and political issues of the day.

One notable aspect of disparagement in these comedies is its intersection with humor. Schulze argues that humor serves as a powerful tool for mass-mediated deprecation, allowing shows to critique societal norms and power structures while simultaneously entertaining their audiences. The use of irony, sarcasm, and parody contributes to the comedic effect, making the audience laugh at the expense of characters and institutions that are often held in high regard. This laughter, however, is not without its consequences, as it perpetuates the stereotypes and biases that disparagement seeks to challenge.

Furthermore, Schulze explores the cultural work of disparagement in contemporary female-led situation comedies. These shows often challenge traditional gender stereotypes and promote more inclusive and diverse representations of women and men. By featuring characters who defy traditional expectations and break down gender barriers, they contribute to the broader cultural conversation about gender equality and representation. Through their humor and storytelling, they challenge the notion that certain behaviors, attitudes, or characteristics are inherently feminine or masculine and promote a more nuanced understanding of gender roles.

In conclusion, Katja Schulze's study provides valuable insights into the formal principles, media-specific realizations, and cultural significance of disparagement in contemporary female-led situation comedies. Through the analysis of popular sitcoms, she uncovers how humor is used as a means of mass-mediated deprecation, challenging societal norms and power structures while entertaining audiences. Additionally, she highlights the cultural work of disparagement in these comedies, promoting more inclusive and diverse representations of women and men and contributing to the broader cultural conversation about gender equality. This study underscores the important role that humor plays in shaping societal attitudes and challenging dominant narratives.

Weight: 416g
Dimension: 147 x 223 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783837662603