Laughing Matters: Chronic Pain and Bodily Fragmentation in Lucian's Podagra

Abstract

Abstract:This paper discusses the themes of laughter, chronic pain, and bodily fragmentation in Podagra (Gout), Lucian's tragicomic take on chronic but nonlethal gout. Particular diseases had, it seems, distinct comedic connotations and gout was one of them. Extra emphasis is placed on the recasting of chronic illness as an agonizing and yet worthwhile initiation into mystery rites of the highest order. In terms of methodology, this study draws inspiration from Adrienne Janus's work on laughter in Beckett. By following closely the recurring themes of pain and fragmentation in Podagra, this paper argues that morbid laughter in a pure Beckettian sense, the risus purus, that is the body's automatic audible response to the absurdity of pain and physical agony, is recommended in the play as the only effective coping mechanism against the suffering caused by the disease.