Maggie Hennefeld est une universitaire dont les recherches explorent la riche histoire et l'impact culturel de la comédie cinématographique. Son travail examine de manière critique l'évolution de l'humour et de ses différentes formes, révélant comment elles reflètent les changements sociétaux et les attitudes culturelles dominantes. Grâce à son approche analytique, Hennefeld cherche à découvrir les significations plus profondes et les implications sociales plus larges inhérentes aux œuvres comiques.
The book delves into the overlooked narratives surrounding "hysterical laughter," particularly in the context of women's experiences. It examines how society has both theorized and demonized this form of amusement, highlighting the ways it has been suppressed and exploited throughout history. Through this exploration, the author sheds light on the complex relationship between gender and laughter, uncovering the cultural implications and historical significance of women's laughter.
In Specters of Slapstick and Silent Film Comediennes, Maggie Hennefeld examines little-known silent films that, she argues, provide disturbing but suggestive images for comprehending gendered social upheavals in the early twentieth century. Hennefeld shows how slapstick comediennes were crucial to the emergence of film language and experimentation.