A new representation of the history of comedy from a European perspective. Only drama has elevated the comic to an independent poetic genre, that is, comedy. Here, its history is presented: from antiquity to the 21st century, from Aristophanes to Yasmina Reza. However, instead of striving for a universal history, individual plays by the most important authors and eras are examined in greater detail: What is exposed to public laughter? What means are used to achieve this? What answers are provided regarding the state of the world? In what context does theater exist, architecturally, politically, poetically? Engaging and informative, the authors succeed in presenting comedy in all its aspects while simultaneously articulating its essential characteristics.