Question

The Greek expression _____________________________ means "contrary to expectation", which describes a kind of joke that best expresses ______________________________'s theory, that laughter is often an expression of a strained expectation being suddenly reduced to nothing.

Answer 1

The Greek expression 'paraprosdokian' refers to humor that is 'contrary to expectation,' which aligns with Henri Bergson's theory relating to laughter, and is exemplified by the comedic works of Aristophanes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Greek expression that means "contrary to expectation" is paraprosdokian, which describes a kind of joke that best expresses the theory of Henri Bergson, a philosopher well-known for his work on laughter. Bergson's theory suggests that laughter is often an expression of a strained expectation being suddenly reduced to nothing. This theory aligns well with the satirical works of Aristophanes, a Greek playwright who effectively used humor to critique social norms and political life in Athens. Comedy, as defined by Greek theatre, was a genre meant to provoke not just laughter, but also thought, as it allowed societal examination through jest and wit.