Thus when we see some very evident failure in a sketch, we
say "this is a most wretched work, and out of all drawing," and add as a
climax of disapprobation "It is perfectly ridiculous." A violation of
taste is never sufficient for the ludicrous, and the ludicrous is not
always a violation of taste.
There is something in humour beyond what is merely unexpected. I
remember a physician telling me that a gentleman objected very much to
some prescriptions given to his wife, and wanted some quack medicines
tried. The doctor opposed him, and on the gentleman calling on him and
telling him he was unfit for his profession, there was an open rupture
between them, and they cut each other in the street. Not long afterwards
the gentleman died, and left him a legacy of L500. The doctor could not
help being amused at the bequest under such circumstances, though, had
it come equally unexpectedly from a mere stranger, he would have been
merely surprised.
In some humorous sayings we find several different complications, which
increase the force. Coincidences of this kind not only add to, but
multiply humour in which when of a high class the complexity is very
subtle. It has much increased since ancient times, there was a large
preponderance of emotion.
CHAPTER XXII.
Imperfection--An Impression of Falsity implied--Two Views taken by
Philosophers--Firstly that of Voltaire, Jean Paul, Brown, the German
Idealists, Leon Dumont, Secondly that of Descartes, Marmontel and
Dugald Stewart--Whately on Jests--Nature of Puns--Effect of Custom and
Habit--Accessory Emotion--Disappointment and Loss--Practical Jokes.
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