Different Types of Humor

There are three parts to every joke or comedic sketch. The set up, the punch line, and the reaction.

Different types of humor can be defined by where the ultimate emphasis is placed when telling a joke or acting out a scene. The three specific types are: Pythonesque, Henniclassic, and Newhartean.

In Pythonesque Comedy, most of the humor results from how the story is told. The telling of the joke or acting of the scene is what's most important. The punch line -- where applicable -- is almost an afterthought. Its tour de force ("tour de farce") moment is rarely its closing line.

Depends upon acting skills, with an emphasis on verbal and physical dexterity.

In Henniclassic Comedy, the punch line reigns supreme. No matter how amusing the story is related, its total worth rests almost entirely on its closing line or final thought. A bad punch line or, even worse, no punch line at all means no closure and, therefore, no laughs.

Depends upon narrative skills, with an emphasis on comedic timing and tone.

In Newhartean Comedy, the emphasis is shifted from the story itself to the effect the story has on its audience. It isn't the punch line or the bizarre circumstances leading there that generates laughs, but the look on the face of the person listening to the joke or watching the story unfold that creates the humor.

Depends upon a talent for understatement, with an emphasis on facial expression, body language, and vocal variation.

Some humor, maybe most humor, contains elements of all three types. A colorful narrative can add to the impact of a good punch line. No punch line at all at the end of a skit can become the ultimate punch line. An interesting reaction can shed light on a funny narrative or punch the punchiest punch line.