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Women in comedy refers to women who participate in comedic works as well as their experience within the social environment. While primarily dominated by men throughout history, women have been represented in the field of comedy since the mid-1700s.[1][2]Comedy, or creative works with the intention of humor, is thought to have originated in ancient Greek theatre in 425 BCE.[3] Some of the first figures to enter the field, however, were faced with resistance and discrimination.[4][5] A sense of humor in women was previously thought to have meant the ability to laugh at a man's joke, rather than to tell the joke herself.[4] When women did finally enter comedy (in its various forms), it was seen as niche, thus making bookings hard to come by.
Early acts were often based on the standard roles of women as housewives and mothers.[4][2] Comedy was tailored to what men would find to be both funny and non-threatening.[4] As women gained slow acceptance of their presence in comedy, they were able to expand the topics that they covered.[4] Since then, women have made significant gains in the field, having found fame through stand-up, television, movies, and writing.[4] Women such as Phyllis Diller, Wanda Sykes, Gina Barreca and many others have contributed to the world of comedy, spanning both time and medium.[2][1]
As comedic license has grown, comedy has become a tool within the scope of feminism.[6][7] By reclaiming a previously male-exclusive art form, feminist comedians are able to use the traditionally-male art of comedy to critique what they view as patriarchal structures.[6] Today, feminist comedy draws attention to female issues such as menstruation, rape, gender inequality, beauty norms, and machismo.[6][7] As a readily acceptable and understandable medium of communication, comedy lends itself to the feminist movement, allowing women's issues to be more widespread in general society.[6]
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