Making Light of Grave Matters
Humour in Edith Eaton’s Works
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 8865007 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Zhen Liu (0000-0002-8440-2554, Shandong University, corresponding author) |
| Year | 2024 |
| Volume | 105 |
| Issue | 7 |
| Pages | 1079-1097 |
| Publication date | 2024-07-29 |
| Peer Reviewed | Yes |
| Open Access | No |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | English Studies (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 0013-838X • E-ISSN: 1744-4217 |
| Publisher | Routledge (PUBLISHER • GB) |
| DOI | 10.1080/0013838x.2024.2378391 |
| OpenAlex | W4401084490 |
| Language | EN |
| Citations received | 1 |
| References cited | 15 |
When Edith Eaton (Sui Sin Far) published her only book Mrs. Spring Fragrance in 1912, it received about twenty reviews in the American and Canadian press. Many of the reviews suggested that the nature of the book was light and fresh, albeit the larger part of her works dealt with unsuccessful cases of Americanisation and their grave consequences. In this article, I will focus on the use of humour in what are perceived as Eaton's light pieces. I argue that by making grave matters light, Eaton was able to secure publication while safeguarding her messages. More importantly, Eaton developed a special sense of humour, which I term a benevolent amusement, in her works. Her structurally coded messages, wrapped in multilayered humour, are like time capsules to be opened now
Art · Art history · Literature · American History and Culture · Canadian Identity and History · Historical Economic and Social Studies
| Unique citing works | 1 |
|---|---|
| Citations per year | 1 |
| Citation span | 2026 - 2026 (1) |
| Citation velocity | current |
| Highly cited | No |
| Citation types | Neutral: 1 |