Abstract

This thesis gives a brief introduction of verbal humor and sitcoms and explores the similarities and differences of humor strategies utilized in Chinese and English sitcoms to reveal the production mechanism of verbal humors in sitcoms. Then the paper probes into the cultural differences, which contribute to the various humor styles in the Love Apartment and Friends. In aspects of linguistic analyses and cultural roots, the paper is aimed at a comprehensive research on the different verbal humor styles in English and Chinese sitcoms to guide the cross-cultural communication. 

Key words: verbal humor, sitcoms, linguistic analyses, culture roots

CONTENTS

中文摘要

Abstract

1.   Introduction

2.-Similarities of Verbal Humor in English and Chinese Sitcoms-2

2.1.-Humorous Techniques-2

2.1.1.-Vague language-2

2.1.2.-Figure of speech-4

2.2.-Functions of humor-5

2.2.1.-Psychosomatic functions-6

2.2.2.-Social functions-6

3.-Differences of Verbal Humor in English and Chinese Sitcoms-7

3.1.-Topics-7

3.2.-Targets-8

3.3.-Expressing forms-9

4.-Cultural Roots of the Differences on Chinese and English Humor-9

4.1.-Social structure-9

4.2.-Social orientation-9

4.3.-Religious philosophy-9

5.-Conclusion-10

Works Cited-11