REFLECTIONS ON HUMOR AND HIERARCHY IN SAMOA

Abstract

In this paper I offer a brief glimpse into the comedic sensibility of Samoans. The study of humor is not central to my interests, but it is among topics one unavoidably—and often pleasantly—encounters during field research, fit us my aim is to utilize this forum in the same way a stand-up comedian might use an open mic night, to present rough ideas and unfinished material, and I hope the readers will indulge me though my paper is heavy on setup and light on punchlines. My material will consist of snippets of field anecdotes— the anthropological equivalent of observational comedy—and a lengthier look at a humorous sketch by a well-known comedy duo performing in New Zealand.