A humorous episode or scene in a serious or tragic work, especially one used to provide temporary respite from emotional tension.
Comic relief can take many forms, from a single joke or pun to a fully developed comic subplot. Often, comic relief is provided by a character who is intentionally humorous, such as a clown or a fool. In other cases, the humor may be more subtle, such as an ironic situation or a clever turn of phrase.
Comic relief can serve several purposes in a work of literature. It can provide a moment of levity and allow the audience to relax and laugh. It can also help to highlight the seriousness of the main plot by contrast. Additionally, comic relief can help to develop characters and reveal their personalities.
Some famous examples of comic relief in literature include:
- The porter scene in Shakespeare's Macbeth
- The gravedigger scene in Hamlet
- The Fool in King Lear
- Sancho Panza in Miguel de Cervantes's Don Quixote
- Jeeves in P.G. Wodehouse's novels
Comic relief is an important tool that can be used to enhance a work of literature. By providing humor and lightness, comic relief can help to create a more enjoyable and engaging reading experience.