Description
Unlock the timeless art of humor with *How to Tell a Joke*, a fascinating guide that delves deep into the strategies of effective joke-telling. This insightful book features new translations of Cicero's witty explorations on humor and Quintilian's teachings, making it an essential read for anyone interested in the nuances of public speaking, comedy writing, or simply bringing laughter to any setting. From political arenas to casual gatherings, learn how a well-placed joke can sway an audience and foster connections. Navigating the delicate line between humor and offense is crucial, and this guide equips you with the knowledge to hone your delivery without crossing into clownish territory. Each chapter is enriched with practical examples and humor tips, ensuring you understand the art behind both classic and modern joke structures. Whether you're aiming to engage a hostile room, win an argument, or lighten the mood at an event, *How to Tell a Joke* provides a comprehensive framework for success. You’ll also find insightful commentary and an analysis of various joke styles that can be tailored to your unique sense of humor. Perfect for aspiring comedians, public speakers, or anyone wanting to improve their comedic timing, this book will elevate your joke-telling abilities.
Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.
Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780691206165
Format: Trade binding
Year: 2021
Publisher: Princeton University Press
Description:
Can jokes win a hostile room, a hopeless argument, or even an election? You bet they can, according to Cicero, and he knew what he was talking about. One of Rome's greatest politicians, speakers, and lawyers, Cicero was also reputedly one of antiquity's funniest people. After he was elected commander-in-chief and head of state, his enemies even started calling him "the stand-up Consul." How to Tell a Joke provides a lively new translation of Cicero's essential writing on humour alongside that of the later Roman orator and educator Quintilian. The result is a timeless practical guide to how a well-timed joke can win over any audience.
As powerful as jokes can be, they are also hugely risky. The line between a witty joke and an offensive one isn't always clear. Cross it and you'll look like a clown, or worse. Here, Cicero and Quintilian explore every aspect of telling jokes-while avoiding costly mistakes. Presenting the sections on humour in Cicero's On the Ideal Orator and Quintilian's On the Orator's Education, complete with an enlightening introduction and the original Latin on facing pages, How to Tell a Joke examines the risks and rewards of humour and analyses basic types that readers can use to write their own jokes.
Filled with insight, wit, and examples, including more than a few lawyer jokes, How to Tell a Joke will appeal to anyone interested in humour or the art of public speaking.
'Though I had some quibbles with the Latin translation, largely because I don't read Latin, I agreed with the two-millennium-old rules on humor. Or maybe it
Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.
Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780691206165
Format: Trade binding
Year: 2021
Publisher: Princeton University Press
Description:
Can jokes win a hostile room, a hopeless argument, or even an election? You bet they can, according to Cicero, and he knew what he was talking about. One of Rome's greatest politicians, speakers, and lawyers, Cicero was also reputedly one of antiquity's funniest people. After he was elected commander-in-chief and head of state, his enemies even started calling him "the stand-up Consul." How to Tell a Joke provides a lively new translation of Cicero's essential writing on humour alongside that of the later Roman orator and educator Quintilian. The result is a timeless practical guide to how a well-timed joke can win over any audience.
As powerful as jokes can be, they are also hugely risky. The line between a witty joke and an offensive one isn't always clear. Cross it and you'll look like a clown, or worse. Here, Cicero and Quintilian explore every aspect of telling jokes-while avoiding costly mistakes. Presenting the sections on humour in Cicero's On the Ideal Orator and Quintilian's On the Orator's Education, complete with an enlightening introduction and the original Latin on facing pages, How to Tell a Joke examines the risks and rewards of humour and analyses basic types that readers can use to write their own jokes.
Filled with insight, wit, and examples, including more than a few lawyer jokes, How to Tell a Joke will appeal to anyone interested in humour or the art of public speaking.
'Though I had some quibbles with the Latin translation, largely because I don't read Latin, I agreed with the two-millennium-old rules on humor. Or maybe it