Voltaire's Dark Comedy "The true test of comedy is that it shall awaken thoughtful laughter."-George Meredith What is thoughtful laughter? The term almost defines itself. Thoughtful laughter is when a situation utilizes amusement or humor as a means to provoke reflection. Writers throughout history have employed such means as a way to make a statement or a point. In fact, the entire art of satire is based around this ... come to mind: Chaucer's Canterbury Tales, Swift's Modest Proposal, and most certainly Voltaire's Candide. In Candide there are endless examples of thought provoking humor, b...

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• Approx Pages: 3
• Grade Level: Undergraduate