Why We Laugh

Why We Laugh examines the nature of humor and the powerful, often subversive role of comedy, using Mark Twain's life and work as a lens. It explores why laughter can reveal uncomfortable truths, how jokes function, and the darker aspects of humor that evolve over time. Drawing from various disciplines, the book presents Twain not just as a literary icon but as a working comedian whose work challenges societal norms and human nature. Ultimately, it investigates how laughter serves as a gateway to understanding deeper truths about ourselves and the world.