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Discuss the elements of humour in the play A Pound on Demand

Discuss the elements of humour in the play A Pound on Demand

2 Answers

  1. The play A Pound on Demand by Sean O’Casey has many elements of humour in it. The first of such is the title itself. It is a play on words because it has the word “pound” in it, and the play concerns the demand for the pound. It also has the element of brevity to it, because the word “demand” contains the word “dem” in it, which is a shortening of the word “demand”.
    Another element of humour is found in the title of one of the characters in the play, Miss Neary. When pronouncing the word “near” we use the letters “ear”, which is part of the word “near”, and when the word “ear” is pronounced it

  2. A Pound on Demand is a one-act farce by Irish playwright, Sean O’Casey. The play is a lighthearted comedy about a family of four who are running out of money and must find a way to come up with the funds to pay their rent.

    One of the main elements of humor in the play is the use of physical comedy. O’Casey often uses slapstick and exaggerated movements to create humorous moments. For example, when the family is unable to come up with a plan to pay the rent, they get into a physical altercation that ends with their furniture being thrown around the room. This physical comedy is a source of comic relief throughout the play.

    Another element of humor in the play is the use of wordplay and puns. O’Casey often uses clever phrases and double entendres to create humorous moments. For example, when one of the characters is discussing how much money they need, they say, “We’ve got a pound on demand.” This is a play on words as the phrase can be interpreted both literally and figuratively.

    Finally, O’Casey also uses satire and irony to create humorous moments. For example, when one of the characters is discussing their financial situation, they say, “We’re as poor as church mice.” This is a humorous statement as it is ironic that a family who is struggling financially would compare themselves to a rodent that is known for being poor.

    Overall, Sean O’Casey’s use of physical comedy, puns, satire, and irony creates a lighthearted and humorous atmosphere in A Pound on Demand.

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