Ridicule is made for any one that wants to raise morale, strip an enemy of their mystique and prestige, bring truth to the enemy's claim to justice, or eliminate the enemy's image of invincibility. It is a powerful source of humor that has been used since the ancient Greek times and even religious prophets, such as Muhammad, used it as a weapon of war.
The purpose of the argument that is made by Waller, is to show the reader that humor can not only be used to make people laugh in comedies, plays, and arts, but it can also be used as a weapon of war. Dictator and tyrants especially dislike public ridicule because it can put a dent in their image / ego.
Brian, I really like the idea that you posted for your topic proposal. I think it will be a great topic to write about because you should be able to talk about this topic pretty easily. Ridicule is something that has always been very popular in comedy and without it, there would be no humor to most jokes. While writing your paper, I definitely think that you should talk a lot about how ridicule was used in the past by important figures such as the ones you pointed out in your blog. Although you have made a good topic proposal, you need to talk more about your ideas in order for your to reach its maximum potential. My advice would be to answer more of the questions that our professor gave us which should help you create a better starting point for your paper.
ReplyDeleteBe very concerned when your peer's in-class comment is longer than the writing itself; this does not reflect well on your effort here. Remember, summary and analysis are not the same thing.
ReplyDeleteFor this essay, you want to focus on how the writer of the essay you're focusing on creates his/her argument. What devices are used, meaning, if you are convinced by the writing, why? If you're not convinced, why not? Also, how does the writer appeal to the logic/reason and emotions of his/her audience? How does the writer establish credibility?