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Thomas C. Oden

The Humor of Kierkegaard: An Anthology Paperback – July 26, 2004

by Søren Kierkegaard (Author), Thomas C. Oden (Editor)

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Who might reasonably be nominated as the funniest philosopher of all time? With this anthology, Thomas Oden provisionally declares Søren Aabye Kierkegaard (1813-1855)--despite his enduring stereotype as the melancholy, despairing Dane--as, among philosophers, the most amusing.

Kierkegaard not only explored comic perception to its depths but also practiced the art of comedy as astutely as any writer of his time. This collection shows how his theory of comedy is integrated into his practice of comic perception, and how both are integral to his entire authorship.

Kierkegaard's humor ranges from the droll to the rollicking; from farce to intricate, subtle analysis; from nimble stories to amusing aphorisms. In these pages you are invited to meet the wife of an author who burned her husband's manuscript and a businessman who, even with an abundance of calling cards, forgot his own name. You will hear of an interminable vacillator whom archeologists found still pacing thousands of years later, trying to come to a decision. Then there is the emperor who became a barkeeper in order to stay in the know.

The Humor of Kierkegaard is for anyone ready to be amused by human follies. Those new to Kierkegaard will discover a dazzling mind worth meeting. Those already familiar with his theory of comedy will be delighted to see it concisely set forth and exemplified. Others may have read Kierkegaard intensively without having ever really noticed his comic side. Here they will find what they have been missing.

Editorial Reviews

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"Kierkegaard is known for many things. . . . He is not, however, generally known for his humor, a situation this book--really two in one--will ameliorate. . . . Oden knows his subject well, and his remarks effectively elucidate key points; his selections provide examples of Kierkegaard's humor while giving a solid overview of his philosophical thinking in general." (Library Journal)

"I would say that Kierkegaard is the greatest theorist of irony . . . and that Oden himself is a magnificent guide to his thought on this problematical subject and on Kierkegaard's thought on humor in general. . . . When one reads Kierkegaard--and often more intelligibly for the general reader, someone like Oden--one sees why books written in a contemporary modern vein of irony are so profoundly boring."---Katherine A. Powers, The Boston Globe

"Not only does this book make Kierkegaard accessible but it also entertains, regales with story, and amuses. It will be useful for the lectern, pulpit, and after-dinner dais. The selections, which made me laugh, illustrate sardonically the contradictions of existence."―David J. Gouwens, Brite Divinity School, Texas Christian University

From the Back Cover

"Not only does this book make Kierkegaard accessible but it also entertains, regales with story, and amuses. It will be useful for the lectern, pulpit, and after-dinner dais. The selections, which made me laugh, illustrate sardonically the contradictions of existence."--David J. Gouwens, Brite Divinity School, Texas Christian University

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Product details

Paperback: 352 pages
Publisher: Princeton University Press; First Paperback. edition (July 26, 2004)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 069102085X
ISBN-13: 978-0691020853
Product Dimensions: 6.1 x 0.8 x 9.2 inches
Shipping Weight: 1.4 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
Average Customer Review: 5 customer reviews
Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,628,883 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
- #1016 in Books > Politics & Social Sciences > Philosophy > Criticism
- #1202 in Books > Biographies & Memoirs > Professionals & Academics > Philosophers
- #2897 in Books > Politics & Social Sciences > Philosophy > History & Surveys

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J. E. Gibbons

Ageless Wisdom - Arcane Humor

July 5, 2009

Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase

If you buy this book looking for a few belly laughs, FORGET IT.
Like all of Kierkegaard this book is an exertion in understanding.
Once you've successfully deciphered the point of his parable and you've recognized what at one time passed for biting huomorous satire; it's too late to laugh. It may cause you to raise a smile, but that will be about it. Having once dived into a book on Abraham Lincoln's humor, alleged to be a real wit in case you've didn't know,I had this SAME PROBLEM -- not funny now. This book is a nice addition for anyone growing a Kierkegaard collection but definitely not advisable as a first purchase. I suggest you read at least three other works by this genius first. He is a very deep thinker, that is for sure. If sorting out 19th century Danish humor is your thing; then this book is an okay book, worthwhile but it is still not a great book. However if this is your first go at Soren Kierkegaard, I would definitely vote to pass. Sorry?

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john d mcmichael

Five Stars

February 7, 2017

Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase

Just more intrigue from my favorite philosopher.

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Steven J Rhudy

Three Stars

July 3, 2015

Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase

Thanks

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sibyllinemagician

Five Stars

February 9, 2016

Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase

Wonderful book.

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The wit and irony which will make you smile

May 3, 2006

Format: Paperback

The editor of this book says it is not meant to present a systematic , serious investigation of Kierkegaard's humor. Rather it is presented for the general reader as a kind of introduction to Kierkegaard, and his droll, imaginative humor which the editor believes is the greatest of any philosopher.

Having read a fair amount of Kierkegaard in my time I would say that his humor is real, ironic and smile- raising. It will not get anyone rolling in the aisles.

Yet the wit, again the irony do help make Kierkegaard an amusing writer- and this when his emotional range goes far beyond this.

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