TED-Ed: How to make a sad story funny | Jodie Houlston-Lau

The video tutorial explores the use of comic relief in storytelling, emphasizing its importance in creating emotional variety and enhancing narrative tension. It discusses examples from 'The Epic of Gilgamesh', Kurt Vonnegut's 'Slaughterhouse-Five', and Arundhati Roy's 'The God of Small Things', illustrating how humor can provide both relief and depth to serious themes. The tutorial offers guidance on effectively incorporating comic relief into writing to engage audiences and convey complex messages.

Why is comic relief considered important in storytelling?

• It helps to maintain a single emotional tone throughout the story.

• It ensures the story is always humorous.

• It makes the story less engaging.

• It allows the audience to experience a range of emotions.

In 'The Epic of Gilgamesh', what effect does the comic moment at the bar have on the story?

• It subverts expectations and builds tension.

• It concludes the story.

• It resolves the main conflict.

• It introduces a new character.

How does 'Slaughterhouse-Five' use comic relief?

• By using only slapstick comedy.

• By avoiding any serious themes.

• By alternating between war scenes and humorous science fiction moments.

• By focusing solely on comedic scenes.

What narrative style does 'The God of Small Things' use to incorporate comic relief?

• The perspective of children to add humor to a tragic story.

• A serious and somber tone throughout.

• A purely comedic narrative.

• A focus on adult perspectives.

What should writers consider when using comic relief in their stories?

• Making sure the story is only comedic.

• Avoiding any serious themes.

• Ensuring every scene is humorous.

• The moment that would benefit from contrasting emotion and the message they want to convey.