“No one has come forward in defense of laughter. No, laughter is more meaningful and more profound than [most think]…Those who say that laughter incites are unjust. Only the dismal incites, while laughter gives light. Many things would incite man if presented in their nakedness; but illuminated by the power of laughter, they bring reconciliation to the soul.” (Gogol)
Choose a novel, play, or long poem that illuminates the human condition through the power of laughter. In a well-constructed essay, explain how the work expresses one or more profound truths about human beings and discuss the specific techniques the author uses to convey these ideas.
You may select a work by one of the following authors or another author of comparable literary merit.