Final answer:
Joseph Andrews is considered a 'comic' epic in prose for its humorous satirical treatment of society, combining traditional epic characteristics with novelistic storytelling.
Step-by-step explanation:
Joseph Andrews is often regarded as a "comic" epic in prose because it intertwines humor with traditional epic characteristics in a novel format. This juxtaposition of the high style of epics with the lowly and often ludicrous situations its characters find themselves in creates a rich tapestry of social commentary and comedy. Much like other comedic works of the 19th century, such as those by Oscar Wilde, Joseph Andrews uses its humor and wit to critique social norms and satirize aspects of society. The novel is an early example of a literary work that uses comical elements to challenge and entertain, influencing the way literature would engage with humor and social criticism in the future.