An Essay towards Fixing the True Standards of Wit, Humour, Railery, Satire, and Ridicule (1744) By: Corbyn Morris (-1779)
In "An Essay towards Fixing the True Standards of Wit, Humour, Railery, Satire, and Ridicule" (1744), Corbyn Morris delves into the realm of satire and ridicule with a thoroughness that is both impressive and thought-provoking. In his essay, Morris attempts to establish a framework for evaluating wit and humor, questioning the prevailing standards of his time and proposing an alternative approach. One of the strengths of Morris's work is his ability to dissect the intricacies of satire and ridicule, examining their origins and purpose. He explores how these genres can serve as powerful tools for social commentary and criticism, challenging readers to reconsider their preconceived notions. By delving into the various types and forms of wit, Morris presents a comprehensive overview of the subject matter, inviting readers on a journey of introspection and intellectual exploration. Throughout the essay, Morris takes on a scholarly and analytical tone, providing a wealth of historical examples and references to support his arguments. His meticulous research lends credibility to his assertions, making the essay a compelling read for those interested in the intellectual and cultural history of satire. One notable aspect of Morris's work is his careful consideration of the potential dangers of satire. He acknowledges that while satire can be a powerful tool for exposing societal flaws, it must be wielded responsibly and with empathy. Morris's emphasis on using wit and humor for constructive purposes adds a layer of nuance to his exploration of the subject matter, reminding readers of the ethical implications inherent in comedy and ridicule. However, some readers may find the essay's excessive reliance on historical examples occasionally overwhelming. The extensive footnotes and references may hinder the overall flow, potentially deterring casual readers who may not have the same level of familiarity with the historical context. Additionally, the language and style of the essay can be dense and challenging to grasp for those unaccustomed to 18th-century prose. Despite these minor drawbacks, "An Essay towards Fixing the True Standards of Wit, Humour, Railery, Satire, and Ridicule" remains a captivating and valuable read. Morris's thoughtful examination of satire and ridicule still holds relevance in contemporary society, serving as a reminder of the power and responsibility that comes with employing wit and humor as tools for social critique. Whether approached from a historical or philosophical perspective, this essay offers a stimulating journey into the complexities of wit and its role in shaping our culture. First Page: Series Two: Essays on Wit No. 4 [Corbyn Morris] An Essay towards Fixing the True Standards of Wit, Humour, Raillery, Satire, and Ridicule (1744) With an Introduction by James L. Clifford and a Bibliographical Note The Augustan Reprint Society November, 1947 Price: $1.00 GENERAL EDITORS RICHARD C. BOYS, University of Michigan EDWARD NILES HOOKER, University of California, Los Angeles H.T. SWEDENBERG, JR., University of California, Los Angeles ADVISORY EDITORS EMMETT L. AVERY, State College of Washington LOUIS I. BREDVOLD, University of Michigan BENJAMIN BOYCE, University of Nebraska CLEANTH BROOKS, Yale University JAMES L. CLIFFORD, Columbia University ARTHUR FRIEDMAN, University of Chicago SAMUEL H. MONK, University of Minnesota JAMES SUTHERLAND, Queen Mary College, London INTRODUCTION The Essay here reproduced was first advertised in the London Daily Advertiser as "this day was published" on Thursday, 17 May 1744 (The same advertisement, except for the change of price from one shilling to two, appeared in this paper intermittently until 14 June)... Continue reading book >>

An Essay towards Fixing the True Standards of Wit, Humour, Railery, Satire, and Ridicule (1744) By: Corbyn Morris (-1779)

In "An Essay towards Fixing the True Standards of Wit, Humour, Railery, Satire, and Ridicule" (1744), Corbyn Morris delves into the realm of satire and ridicule with a thoroughness that is both impressive and thought-provoking. In his essay, Morris attempts to establish a framework for evaluating wit and humor, questioning the prevailing standards of his time and proposing an alternative approach.

One of the strengths of Morris's work is his ability to dissect the intricacies of satire and ridicule, examining their origins and purpose. He explores how these genres can serve as powerful tools for social commentary and criticism, challenging readers to reconsider their preconceived notions. By delving into the various types and forms of wit, Morris presents a comprehensive overview of the subject matter, inviting readers on a journey of introspection and intellectual exploration.

Throughout the essay, Morris takes on a scholarly and analytical tone, providing a wealth of historical examples and references to support his arguments. His meticulous research lends credibility to his assertions, making the essay a compelling read for those interested in the intellectual and cultural history of satire.

One notable aspect of Morris's work is his careful consideration of the potential dangers of satire. He acknowledges that while satire can be a powerful tool for exposing societal flaws, it must be wielded responsibly and with empathy. Morris's emphasis on using wit and humor for constructive purposes adds a layer of nuance to his exploration of the subject matter, reminding readers of the ethical implications inherent in comedy and ridicule.

However, some readers may find the essay's excessive reliance on historical examples occasionally overwhelming. The extensive footnotes and references may hinder the overall flow, potentially deterring casual readers who may not have the same level of familiarity with the historical context. Additionally, the language and style of the essay can be dense and challenging to grasp for those unaccustomed to 18th-century prose.

Despite these minor drawbacks, "An Essay towards Fixing the True Standards of Wit, Humour, Railery, Satire, and Ridicule" remains a captivating and valuable read. Morris's thoughtful examination of satire and ridicule still holds relevance in contemporary society, serving as a reminder of the power and responsibility that comes with employing wit and humor as tools for social critique. Whether approached from a historical or philosophical perspective, this essay offers a stimulating journey into the complexities of wit and its role in shaping our culture.

First Page:

Series Two: Essays on Wit

No. 4

[Corbyn Morris] An Essay towards Fixing the True Standards of Wit, Humour, Raillery, Satire, and Ridicule (1744)

With an Introduction by James L. Clifford and a Bibliographical Note

The Augustan Reprint Society November, 1947 Price: $1.00

GENERAL EDITORS

RICHARD C. BOYS, University of Michigan EDWARD NILES HOOKER, University of California, Los Angeles H.T. SWEDENBERG, JR., University of California, Los Angeles

ADVISORY EDITORS

EMMETT L. AVERY, State College of Washington LOUIS I. BREDVOLD, University of Michigan BENJAMIN BOYCE, University of Nebraska CLEANTH BROOKS, Yale University JAMES L. CLIFFORD, Columbia University ARTHUR FRIEDMAN, University of Chicago SAMUEL H. MONK, University of Minnesota JAMES SUTHERLAND, Queen Mary College, London

INTRODUCTION

The Essay here reproduced was first advertised in the London Daily Advertiser as "this day was published" on Thursday, 17 May 1744 (The same advertisement, except for the change of price from one shilling to two, appeared in this paper intermittently until 14 June)... Continue reading book >>

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