Unlocking the Laughter Code: Exploring Attardo's Linguistic Theories of Humor

17 May 2024

(PDF) Salvatore Attardo (1994): Linguistic Theories of Humor

Why is a pun considered funny, but a grammatical error usually isn't? Why do some jokes translate well across cultures, while others fall flat? The answer, according to linguist Salvatore Attardo, lies in the very structure of language itself. Attardo's linguistic theories of humor offer a fascinating lens through which we can dissect the mechanics of humor, revealing the intricate dance between language, culture, and cognition that makes us laugh.

Attardo's work delves into the idea that humor isn't random; it follows patterns and rules, much like language itself. His theories provide a framework for understanding these patterns, explaining why certain combinations of words and ideas tickle our funny bone. Imagine trying to explain a joke to someone who doesn't speak the language – it's nearly impossible. Humor, Attardo argues, relies heavily on our shared linguistic knowledge, our understanding of wordplay, double meanings, and the subtle nuances of language.

One of Attardo's key contributions is the concept of the "General Theory of Verbal Humor" (GTVH). This model breaks down jokes into six distinct levels of analysis, each building upon the previous one. These levels range from the most basic building blocks of a joke, like the sounds of words, to the more complex cultural and logical structures that give a joke its meaning and humorous effect.

Through this framework, Attardo demonstrates how humor often arises from incongruity, the unexpected collision of different scripts, meanings, or perspectives. Take, for example, the classic "Why don't scientists trust atoms? Because they make up everything!" The humor lies in the unexpected shift from the literal meaning of "trust" to the figurative meaning of "rely on," creating a delightful moment of surprise and amusement.

Attardo's work isn't just about dissecting jokes; it offers valuable insights into the power of language and its ability to shape our perceptions of the world. By understanding the linguistic mechanisms behind humor, we gain a deeper appreciation for the creativity and complexity of language itself.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Attardo's Linguistic Theories of Humor

Advantages	Disadvantages
Provides a structured framework for analyzing humor.	Can be seen as overly analytical and potentially diminish the spontaneous nature of humor.
Offers insights into the relationship between language, culture, and humor.	May not fully account for individual differences in humor preferences.
Helps explain why certain jokes work and others don't.	Primarily focuses on verbal humor, potentially neglecting other forms of humor.

While Attardo’s theories offer invaluable insights into the mechanics of humor, it’s crucial to remember that humor, like any form of art, isn’t always easily confined to rules. The subjective nature of humor means that what one person finds hilarious, another might find groan-inducing. Nonetheless, Attardo’s work provides a valuable starting point for understanding the intricate ways in which language shapes our experience of humor, offering a fascinating glimpse into the cognitive processes that tickle our funny bones.