Humour in Pan Podstoli

Abstract

Humour in Pan Podstoli has not attracted much attention so far. Although it is not the most important element of this novel we can observe some interesting solutions in its functioning. Comical events result both from the actions of the narrator – who is one of the protagonists of the novel – and of Pan Podstoli himself. The most important comical elements in the novel are: anecdotes, jokes (also puns), comical scenes, comical characters, humorous observations. Generally, all these kinds of humour are used in the satirical function or in order to make the narration livelier. Irony deserves special attention. It comes from the main protagonist and results from his involvement in the problems that are talked about.