CHAPTER V.

THEORIES OF THE LUDICROUS.

1. The Theory of Degradation • 119

Aristotle’s theory • 120

Theory of Hobbes • 120

Prof. Bain’s theory • 121

Criticism of theory of degradation • 122

2. Theory of Contrariety or Incongruity • 125

Kant’s theory of nullified expectation • 126

Criticism of Kant’s theory • 126

Function of surprise in effect of the ludicrous • 129

Schopenhauer’s theory of incongruity • 130

Criticism of Schopenhauer’s theory • 132

Different forms of the incongruous • 134

Summary of criticism of theories • 135

Attempts to unify the two principles • 136

The laughable as failure to comply with a social requirement • 139

How primitive laughter comes into effect of the ludicrous • 140

Relation of sudden gladness to release from constraint • 141

Element of contempt in effect of the ludicrous • 142

Laughter and the play-mood • 145

The play-mood in the effects of the ludicrous • 149

Summary of results of inquiry into theories • 153