ABSTRACT
This chapter defines both Wit and Humour, not only on account of their tendency to coalesce, but because, though the one is to be found in perfection apart from the other, their richest effect is produced by the combination. Wit, apart from Humour, generally speaking, is but an element for professors to sport with. In combination with Humour it runs into the richest utility, and helps to humanize the world. The chapter proposes to bring the two streams gradually together, till nothing be wanting to their united fulness. In regard to Wit and Humour, it must be confessed that Exaggeration is generally on the side of objection, though seldom ill-naturedly. When otherwise, it becomes revolting, and defeats its purpose. Endless are the ‘quips and cranks’ of Wit and Humour. Hunt quotes from and comments on The Spleen (a verse epistle in octosyllabics on the simple pleasures of a pastoral life) in Wit and Humour.
