Expressions of Humor in Reflecting Chinese Society during the 20th Century

Abstract

This study aims to investigate expressions of humor in reflecting Chinese society during the 20^th century. The purpose of this study is to appreciate the value of humorous literature towards Chinese culture by studying modern and contemporary Chinese literature from 1918 to 2000. The findings showed 20 writers whose intentions to reflect the society can be categorized into 4 periods of time;  1) 1918-1926; being sarcastic about the old culture and revealing hardship in the warrior era,  2) 1927-1936; unmasking the dark society and criticizing nationalism,  3) 1937-1977; reflecting feelings of hope, rage and anxiety,  and 4) 1978-2000; unfolding conflicts and abnormality during the Chinese transformation. Sixty writings were found that describe problems in different contexts, including directingthoughts (18), social and cultural changes (12), refining the mind and improving spirituality (9), revealing social situations (8), unmasking the truth about politics (7), and easing tension in the country (6).