Laughter as a Strategy of Resistance in Socialist Romania
Laughter as a Strategy of Resistance in Socialist Romania

The Case of Jiu Valley

Summary/Abstract: This article illustrates, through empirical examples, the role that humour had in the strategies of resistance of the common people of Jiu Valley (Romania) to state policies during socialism. Based on a collection of interviews, the social and political implications of the humour specific to the local community under the very particular conditions of life under socialism are highlighted. Laughter becomes a nonviolent form of disavowal of abusive state policies, and fosters cohesion within mining community. This manner of manifestation is not only through jokes and funny stories with political intent, but also by staging of humorous situations by “actors” in the “flesh and bones” coming from among the miners.

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