Comic Relief: The Literary Tool of Humor in Serious Moments

What is the literary tool that refers to the use of jokes that come after a serious moment?

Answer:

The literary tool that refers to the use of jokes that come after a serious moment is called "comic relief."

Comic relief is a technique used by writers to alleviate tension or lighten the mood in a work of literature. This can be accomplished through the use of humor, satire, irony, or other forms of comedy.

In Shakespeare's plays, for example, comic relief is often used to break up the tension and tragedy of a scene. Characters like the Fool in "King Lear" or the Porter in "Macbeth" provide a contrast to the serious, dramatic moments of the play, offering a moment of levity for the audience.

Comic relief can also serve to highlight the seriousness of a situation by providing a contrast to the more serious moments. By juxtaposing humor with tragedy, writers can draw attention to the gravity of a situation and create a more nuanced portrayal of the human experience.