Humorous war novels usually have a satirical edge. They make fun of the military bureaucracy, the futility of war, or the self - important attitudes of some military personnel. In 'Slaughterhouse - Five', Vonnegut satirizes the idea of war and the way society glorifies it at times. They also might use a non - linear narrative or a very unique narrative voice to add to the humor. For example, the time - jumping in 'Slaughterhouse - Five' gives a different kind of comical and thought - provoking view of the war experience.
They often use irony. For example, in 'Catch - 22', the rules and regulations in the military are presented in a way that is ironic and humorous. Another characteristic is the use of absurd situations. Characters may find themselves in situations that are completely illogical yet funny in the context of war.
One characteristic is that they can humanize the soldiers. Instead of just showing the heroic and stoic side, humorous war novels might show the silly, scared or just normal human sides of the soldiers through comical situations. For instance, in 'Good Soldier Švejk', Švejk's bumbling nature makes him seem more like an ordinary person caught in extraordinary circumstances. Also, they tend to break the stereotype of the typical war narrative. They don't always focus on the battles and victories but on the everyday life and the lighter side of war, like the social interactions in 'M*A*S*H' where the doctors and nurses have their own little dramas and comedies while still being in a war zone.
Humorous novels often have quirky characters. Think of the characters in 'The Wizard of Oz' like the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion. Their personalities and the way they interact with each other are sources of humor.
They often have quirky characters. For example, in many such novels, the detective might have some strange habits or unique ways of thinking that add humor.
One characteristic is the use of satire. They often make fun of the problems in the dystopian society, like in 'Animal Farm' where the pigs' behavior satirizes the corrupt leaders. Another is the absurdity. For example, in 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy', the situations are extremely absurd, which creates humor. Also, they might have characters with comical traits that contrast with the dark backdrop of the dystopia.
Another is the use of witty dialogue. The characters in humorous detective novels often exchange quick - witted remarks that are both funny and sometimes give clues to the mystery. It makes the story more engaging as readers enjoy both the humor and the detective work. In addition, the settings can also be humorous. A detective agency in a really strange or comical location can set the tone for the whole story.
One characteristic is the use of comical characters. For example, in some novels, you might have a bumbling detective who always gets into funny situations while trying to solve the case.
Exaggeration plays a role too. Roald Dahl in his children's books like 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' exaggerates the characters and the settings. Mr. Wonka's factory is an over - the - top place full of strange and wonderful things, and the greedy children's fates are comically exaggerated.
The use of irony is quite common in humorous British detective novels. For example, a detective might be looking for a clue in the most obvious place but overlook it for the most comical reasons. The descriptions of the characters are also often humorous. In 'The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency', the main character Mma Ramotswe is described in a very endearing and humorous way. The plot twists can also be laced with humor, making the whole reading experience very enjoyable.
Another characteristic is the creation of quirky characters. These characters usually have strange habits or beliefs. In 'Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine' (although the author Gail Honeyman is British, it has a similar flavor), Eleanor has some odd social behaviors which lead to many humorous situations. In American humorous novels too, such characters drive the comical plot. They might be overly - confident but incompetent, or overly - paranoid, etc.
They often have witty dialogue. For example, the characters might engage in quick - paced banter that makes you laugh out loud. In 'The Hating Game', the main characters' back - and - forth exchanges are full of sarcasm and humor.
One characteristic is the use of exaggeration. For example, in 'Catch - 22', the military rules are so absurdly exaggerated that it shows the ridiculousness of the system. Another is the use of irony. In 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn', the so - called civilized society is shown to be full of hypocrisy through irony. Also, they often use unique characters to represent different aspects of society, like the characters in 'A Confederacy of Dunces' that highlight human follies.