The Semiotics of Clowns and Clowning: Rituals of Transgression and the Theory of Laughter
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Book Overview
During the last 300 years circus clowns have emerged as powerful cultural icons. This is the first semiotic analysis of the range of make-up and costumes through which the clowns' performing identities have been established and go on developing. It also examines what Bouissac terms 'micronarratives' - narrative meanings that clowns generate through their acts, dialogues and gestures.
Putting a repertory of clown performances under the semiotic microscope leads to the conclusion that the performances are all interconnected and come from what might be termed a 'mythical matrix'. These micronarratives replicate in context-sensitive forms a master narrative whose general theme refers to the emergence of cultures and constraints that they place upon instinctual behaviour. From this vantage point, each performance can be considered as a ritual which re-enacts the primitive violence inherent in all cultures and the temporary resolutions which must be negotiated as the outcome. Why do these acts of transgression and re-integration then trigger laughter and wonder? What kind of mirror does this put up to society? In a masterful semiotic analysis, Bouissac delves into decades of research to answer these questions.Format:Paperback
Language:English
ISBN:1472532783
ISBN13:9781472532787
Release Date:May 2015
Publisher:Bloomsbury Academic
Length:232 Pages
Weight:0.90 lbs.
Dimensions:0.5" x 6.1" x 9.1"
Related Subjects
Arts, Music & Photography Language Arts Performing Arts Social Science Social SciencesCustomer Reviews
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