Search
https://www.test.storyboardthat.com/genres/comedy
x
Storyboard That Logo

Want to create a storyboard like this one?

Use Storyboard That!

Try Storyboard That!

Create a storyboard

Comedy is defined as a literary work that is written with the intent to entertain and amuse readers. In a comedy, characters may suffer in some way, but they are typically comedic situations with positive outcomes.

Comedy Genre Key Characteristics

Although the genre is called comedy, not all literary comedies are funny in the traditional way. As opposed to protagonists in tragedies, who are often complicated and flawed, comic protagonists tend to be less realistic, simple, and even foolish. Comic plots tend to include some elements of sadness and suffering, but often result in a happy ending, with the protagonist coming to a positive realization of some sort.

There are important elements to a well written literary comedy. First, There must be a lot of expression and communication between characters and the characters and the reader. Second, they must be original and lighthearted, with intelligent writing. A good comedy has the perfect mix of silliness and entertainment, while not being too crass, but sometimes just crass enough. Finally, the timing and rhythm is important. To keep readers entertained, the use of certain words at certain times, and the pattern of the story is critical.

The word comedy is connected to the Greek verb meaning “to revel”, and takes inspiration from the playful antics of Greek god Dionysus, a god of wine and theater. Aristophanes, a comic playwright, wrote over forty comedies, some of which were obscene and offensive. The ancient Greeks often used comedies as ways of mocking powerful and vain men, portraying them as foolish and overindulgent. William Shakespeare wrote several comedies, which differed from his dramatic tragedies. Some common plot patterns that he used include arguments between characters, mistaken identities or disguises, deception, and characters overcoming obstacles so that they can reunite. Most of Shakespeare’s comedies revolved around love, and the tension and passion that goes along with it.

There are many types of comedies including tragicomedy, romantic comedy, sentimental comedy, and dark comedy. Although the works in the comedy genre originated primarily as plays, there are many modern novels that are considered comedy and entertaining for children to read.

Storyboard That

Create your own Storyboard

Try it for Free!

Create your own Storyboard

Try it for Free!

Examples of Comedies

Comedic Plays

  • Lysistrata by Aristophanes
  • The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde
  • The Pillowman by Marin McDonagh
  • Pygmalion by George Bernard Shaw

Shakespearean Comedies


Comedies for Kids

  • Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney
  • Matilda by Roald Dahl
  • The Terrible Two by Mac Barnett and Jory John
  • Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume
  • New Kid by Jerry Craft
  • The Last Kids on Earth by Max Brallier

Want to learn more? Check out our educational article on Literary Genres!


How Tos about Comedy: Literary Genre

1

How can I create a classroom activity that helps students understand the concept of comedy?

Design a group skit project. Ask students to work in small groups to write and perform a short comedic skit. This encourages collaboration, creativity, and firsthand experience with comedic elements.

2

What methods help students identify different types of comedy?

Use video clips. Show examples of slapstick, satire, and parody from age-appropriate sources. Discuss how each uses humor in unique ways for better understanding.

3

How do I guide students to write their own comedic dialogues?

Provide sentence starters. Give students prompts like 'What if...' or 'Imagine if...' to spark ideas. Encourage the use of exaggeration and surprise in their writing.

4

How can I incorporate comedy into daily lessons to boost engagement?

Integrate humor games. Begin lessons with a funny riddle or joke related to the topic. This sets a positive tone and helps students connect with the material.

5

How do I assess students' understanding of comedy in a fun way?

Create a comedy quiz. Ask students to match types of comedy to examples or explain why something is funny. This reinforces concepts and keeps assessment lighthearted.

Frequently Asked Questions about Comedy: Literary Genre

What is comedy?

Comedy is a type of entertainment or literature that is meant to make people laugh. It uses humor, jokes, and funny situations to amuse audiences.

What are some common types of comedy?

Common types of comedy include slapstick, satire, parody, stand-up, and situational comedy. Each style uses different techniques to create humor.

How is comedy different from tragedy?

Comedy aims to entertain and amuse with lighthearted stories, while tragedy deals with serious themes and often has a sad or dramatic ending.

Why is comedy important in literature and theater?

Comedy helps people relax, see things from a new perspective, and cope with difficult topics through laughter. It also reflects society and can spark discussion.

Can you give examples of famous comedians or comedic works?

Famous comedians include Charlie Chaplin, Lucille Ball, and Robin Williams. Classic comedic works are Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream and TV shows like I Love Lucy.

Learn more about genres of literature in our Picture Encyclopedia of Literary Genres!
View All Teacher Resources
*(This Will Start a 2-Week Free Trial - No Credit Card Needed)
https://www.test.storyboardthat.com/genres/comedy
© 2025 - Clever Prototypes, LLC - All rights reserved.
StoryboardThat is a trademark of Clever Prototypes, LLC, and Registered in U.S. Patent and Trademark Office