Let’s talk about The Princess Bride. Aside from being a hilariously witty and strikingly humorous fantasy/adventure film, it also fulfills Aristotle’s definition of a Comedy. In fact, it’s a Comedy within a Comedy! Both the grandson (of the “real world” plot) and Buttercup (of the fantasy plot) are of ordinary backgrounds and unfortunate circumstances: Buttercup is to be married to one she doesn’t love, and the grandson is sick, grumpy, and vehemently opposed to “kissy parts.” Over the course of the film, both main characters undergo a classic Comedic “rise” and improve their situations significantly. Buttercup finds true love, and the grandchild finds ease and comfort (even overcoming his hatred of kissy parts!).
The Princess Bride is one example of a meaningful Comedy. Although it is playful and light, one does not have to search long to find greater human truths. Perhaps it is the “criminal(s) with the heart of gold” or “true love will find a way” or “even those in power can be brought low.” While these ideas (which are most definitely not the only themes of the film) are a bit cliche, they serve as an important reminder of the positive power of humanity. Should The Princess Bride have ended as a Tragedy, with the death of Buttercup and Westley, many of the themes would remain the same. The conclusion of a happy ending does not diminish the meaning of the work.
In fact, all Aristotelian Comedies are inherently meaningful. They show a relatable hero rising to fortune and all the success of a happy ending. If the goal of Tragedy is to evoke catharsis and stir audiences to change the world around them, then Comedy serves as a reminder of to what end those changes serve. Comedy offers a place of stability, a goal point for those moved to fix the world. Without Comedy, Tragedy has no aim. Without Tragedy, Comedy has no pleasantness. The two Aristotelian forms exist in synergy, each giving meaning to the other.
I really enjoyed your analysis and perspective. I understand that some comedies may have meaningful messages just like all stories, but as a whole, I think comedies often aren't meant to be deeply analyzed like they have been.
ReplyDeleteAwesome analysis of how Comedies and Tragedies work together. It gives me a new perspective on movies that I have always loved.
ReplyDeleteYour analysis is very good and I think that comedies can ultimately have a hidden meaning behind them.
ReplyDeleteI like how you don't just talk about Wesley and Buttercup, but also the grandson. Often times people get swept away by the fantasy and forget about the transformation occurring in real life. Your juxtaposition of tragedy and comedy is absolutely true. This analysis is a perfect example of the concept that one cannot "live" without the other.
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