The mirth of nations

by Christie Davies

"The Mirth of Nations is a social and historical study of jokes told in the principal English-speaking countries. It is based on extensive use of archives and other primary sources, including old and rare joke books. Davies makes detailed comparisons between the humor of specific pairs of nations and ethnic and regional groups. In this way, he achieves an appreciation of the unique characteristics of the humor of each nation or group."--BOOK JACKET.