Literary Lapses (ePub)

Stephen Butler Leacock (1869-1944) was a preeminent Canadian humorist, academic, and author, recognized for his light-hearted yet insightful satire and wit. Born in Hampshire, England, Leacock immigrated to Canada with his family at a young age and later attended Upper Canada College, the University of Toronto, and the University of Chicago. He pursued an academic career as a political economist and lecturer, eventually joining the faculty at McGill University. However, it is his literary career that cemented his legacy as a leading figure in early 20th-century humor writing. Leacock's adeptness at blending humor with social commentary earned him international fame. His extensive body of work includes more than 30 books, numerous articles, and countless lectures. Among his most celebrated works is 'Literary Lapses' (1910), a collection of humorous essays which showcases his distinctive literary style characterized by exaggeration, irony, and a whimsical take on the foibles of society and human nature. With 'Literary Lapses' and his subsequent publications, Leacock contributed significantly to the world of English-language humor, shaping the genre for future generations. His influence extended beyond his death in 1944, as he left a rich legacy that continues to entertain and resonate with readers.