Studies in jocular literature

Name: Studies in jocular literature
Author: William Carew Hazlitt

By William Carew Hazlitt

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Essays, Letters & Speeches Humour

About This Book

A study traces the development, forms, and cultural role of jests and anecdotes from antiquity to modern collections, arguing that jocular literature reflects social conditions and literary practices. It examines origins before print, contributions from drama and literature, Greek and Roman precedents, and the processes by which anecdotes are edited, translated, or corrupted. Chapters classify jest types, explore ballads, nursery rhymes, and continental influences, and analyze notable compilations and editors, concluding that jest-books offer both entertainment and insight into linguistic, social, and editorial history.

About the Author

William Carew Hazlitt

William Carew Hazlitt was an English author and bibliophile, known for his contributions to literature on the subjects of cookery, education, and collecting. His notable works include "Old Cookery Books and Ancient Cuisine," which explores historical culinary texts, and "The Book-Collector," a comprehensive survey of the art of book collecting. Hazlitt's writings reflect a deep appreciation for literature and the culinary arts, as well as a keen interest in the evolution of educational practices in Great Britain, as seen in his work "Schools, School-Books and Schoolmasters." His literary legacy continues to be of interest to scholars and enthusiasts of bibliophilia and culinary history.