ILMIY VA PROFESSIONAL TA’LIM JARAYONIDA MULOQOT, FAN VA MADANIYATLAR
INTEGRATSIYASI
181
Samarkand State Institute of Foreign Languages
"HUMOR AND NATIONAL IDENTITY: THE ROLE OF SELF-DEPRECATION
AND IRONY IN BRITISH LANGUAGE"
Qobilova Nodira Sanakulovna
Researcher of SamSIFL
Abstract.
With an emphasis on British comedy, this research examines how humor shapes
national identity. A nation's customs and culture are reflected in its humor, which frequently uses
regional stereotypes to draw attention to social inequalities. The sarcasm and self-deprecation
that define British humor in particular enable people to chuckle at their own shortcomings and
errors. The study demonstrates how humor promotes approachability, humility, and resilience
using examples from everyday life, including Queen Elizabeth II's self-deprecating comments. It
also emphasizes how ubiquitous comedy is in reducing stress, settling disputes, and fostering
hope.
Key words:
irony, humour, linguoculturology, self-deprecation.
Every country has a unique sense of humour that reflects its customs and culture. Scholars
contend that humour is essential to defining and articulating national identity. During this
process, national identity is frequently formed through the use of regional humorous stereotypes,
which can even play a leading role [1]. Among the many ways humour may appear are contrasts
between the old and the new, between objectives and resources, between acts and situations, and
between an individual's actual character and how they see themselves [2].
When discussing the present era, it is crucial to remember that not all English speakers find
sophisticated jokes funny or precisely follow British humour. They still recognise its presence,
though. "British humour" is still a topic of scholarly study today, with publications and
conversations underlining its unique characteristics as a characteristic of the English character.
Even though this type of humour first appeared in the 19th century among wealthy, well-
educated Britons, its reputation grew so entrenched, both domestically and internationally, that it
still influences how people see British humour today. However, what are its distinguishing
features? Self-deprecation is one of the key components of English humour. The English are
arguably the best at making fun of themselves. The British like laughing at themselves as much
as they enjoy making jokes about other people. They believe that almost any issue can be made
humorous; everything can be made into a joke.
For instance, late Queen Elizabeth II is known to have quite a good sense of humour some
of which were delivered in self-deprecating way: "I’m very glad to have been invited to the
National Cyber Security Centre today, though I must confess I’m not entirely sure what it is."
Now let’s analyze why this statement is considered to be self-deprecating while done with
grace by the late queen. In a modest and sympathetic move, the Queen acknowledges that she
doesn't completely comprehend what the National Cyber Security Centre is. Despite her royal
rank, she comes out as more approachable and normal because of her self-awareness. Also, she
demonstrates that she doesn't take herself too seriously by jokingly admitting her hesitancy. Self-
deprecating humour is characterised by the use of humour to diminish one's own significance or
expertise.
The ability to laugh at oneself in a challenging circumstance is the pinnacle of English
comedy. The capacity to laugh at oneself is regarded as a virtue, and it is not common for the
English to take offense at a joke. The English are keen to ridicule their own poise and tardiness,
as well as their errors, blunders, and peculiarities. An instance of this occurred when Queen
Elizabeth II gave a welcome address to members of Congress during her visit to the United
States. The attendees could only see her hat because the microphone podium was too high for her
height. This led to a lot of scathing comments in the media, and upon the Queen's second visit
the Queen addressed the congressmen with the speech starting with the words, "Dear gentlemen,
I hope you can see me now," a burst of laughter followed[3].
ILMIY VA PROFESSIONAL TA’LIM JARAYONIDA MULOQOT, FAN VA MADANIYATLAR
INTEGRATSIYASI
182
Samarkand State Institute of Foreign Languages
Another way of British people forming humorous effect is Irony. Irony is a category that
characterizes the discrepancy between intention and result. For example a servant addresses the
lord: "Sir, I must inform you that a fire has somehow started in the kitchen." The master of the
house slowly puts down the
Times
and says, "Inform the lady, Robbins, you know I don't deal
with household matters." [4]
This is another classic example of British humor, where the tone remains calm and the
response is unexpectedly nonchalant despite the seriousness of the situation.
No matter what language culture a person comes from, the ability to jest is a great quality.
They may resolve difficult issues, avoid hostility and confrontations, reduce stress, and much
more with the aid of life-affirming humor. It encourages optimism about the world and
demonstrates that a person was, is, and will be despite all the challenges that have occurred.
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