A Show about Nothing: Seinfeld and the Modern Comedy of Manners
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
6-1-2000
Publication Title
Journal of Popular Culture
Abstract
The article analyzes the narrative and thematic concerns of the television comedy series Seinfeld, starring Jerry Seinfeld and Jason Alexander. Frank McConnell has suggested that Seinfeld may be best described as a modern comedy of manners, rather than a traditional domestic television sitcom. At first glance, it may seem absurd to suggest that Seinfeld has anything in common with the witty, refined, upper-class dramas of Molière and Goldsmith. However, the characters of Seinfeld are just as obsessed and frustrated with following and often circumventing the prevailing social codes as the English Restoration comedies of Congreve and Sheridan. One of the central differences between Seinfeld and more traditionally oriented television sitcoms like Coach is that the main characters know they are involved in an elaborate, largely contrived social game of witty dialogue, false deceptions, and desires.
Recommended Citation
Pierson, David P., "A Show about Nothing: Seinfeld and the Modern Comedy of Manners" (2000). Faculty and Staff Scholarship. 149.
https://digitalcommons.usm.maine.edu/usm-faculty-and-staff-scholarship/149
