One of the key features of a sitcom is humor. The humor in a sitcom doesn't just come from well-timed jokes, but also from the literary devices used by the writer. These comedic devices weave humor throughout the story. Read more about these devices to learn more about how they create a sitcom's sense of humor.
Sitcoms often repeat words or phrases—such as a catchphrase or a question—to add to the comedy of a situation.
Think back to the clip from the Dick Van Dyke Show. In this episode, the characters repeatedly refer to Jerry as the best dentist in the world. Each time the phrase is repeated Rob has a physical reaction, growing more and more guilty. His reactions and the repetition of the phrase enhance the humor in the scene.
Writers of a sitcom will often use exaggeration for comedic effect. Think about how Rob reacts when he breaks his tooth. The exaggeration of his behavior adds to the humor of the scene.
Irony—whether situational, verbal, or dramatic—can be used to create humor in a situation. In the Dick Van Dyke Show you watched, Rob breaks his tooth while he is writing a skit about a broken tooth. The irony of the situation adds to the comedy. The other characters think he is joking which enhances his pain and the joke.
Think back to the scenes you read in The Juice How did the writer create humor in these scenes? Complete the activity by matching each scene to the comedic device used.
