Drollery

Master of the Brussels Initials and Associates (French) - Hours of Charles the Noble, King of Navarre (1361-1425), fol. 325r, Text - 1964.40.325.a - Cleveland Museum of Art cropped

Two knights Jousting - Luttrell Psalter (c.1325-1335), f.82 - BL Add MS 42130

Drollery refers to a form of comedy or comic art characterized by its humorous, whimsical, or odd qualities. The term is often used to describe artwork, literature, and performances that are designed to amuse or entertain through a light-hearted, often quirky or unconventional approach. Drollery can be found in various forms of media, including paintings, drawings, books, theatre, and film, showcasing the broad appeal and versatility of this comedic style.

History

The concept of drollery has roots in the Middle Ages, where it was commonly seen in the margins of manuscripts and books. These marginalia often featured fantastical creatures, human figures in amusing scenarios, and other whimsical illustrations that provided a form of visual entertainment. This tradition carried into the Renaissance period, where drollery was embraced in the visual arts, with artists incorporating humorous elements into their works to engage and delight viewers.

In literature, drollery has been a staple element in works ranging from the satirical essays of the 18th century to the whimsical stories of the 19th century. Authors like Jonathan Swift and Lewis Carroll are known for their use of droll humor to critique society or to transport readers to fantastical worlds filled with absurdity and wit.

Characteristics

Drollery is characterized by its light-hearted nature, often involving situations, characters, or narratives that are exaggerated, fantastical, or absurd. The humor in drollery is typically gentle and whimsical, aiming to amuse rather than to provoke or offend. It relies on the unexpected, the odd, and the playful to create a sense of amusement and delight.

In Visual Arts

In the realm of visual arts, drollery is often associated with works that contain humorous, bizarre, or whimsical elements. Artists like Hieronymus Bosch and Pieter Bruegel the Elder are renowned for their detailed paintings that feature a plethora of droll elements, from fantastical creatures to humans engaged in absurd activities. These works not only serve to entertain but also to provide commentary on the human condition, society, or the absurdity of life itself.

In Literature

Drollery in literature manifests through witty dialogue, humorous scenarios, and the creation of eccentric characters or absurd situations. It is a tool used by writers to engage readers, offering a respite from the seriousness of life or to satirize societal norms and behaviors. The use of drollery in literature can range from subtle humor to overtly comedic narratives, showcasing the versatility of this stylistic approach.

In Performance

Theatre and film also make use of drollery, with performances often incorporating slapstick comedy, witty dialogue, and absurd situations to entertain audiences. From the comedic plays of William Shakespeare to the modern-day sitcom, drollery plays a crucial role in making performances engaging and enjoyable.

Conclusion

Drollery, with its whimsical and humorous qualities, remains a beloved form of entertainment across various mediums. Its ability to amuse, entertain, and sometimes even critique, makes it a versatile and enduring aspect of cultural expression. Whether through a painting, a book, or a performance, drollery continues to captivate and delight audiences with its light-hearted take on the world.

Drollery Resources
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