Libras Humor: Playing with the Internal Structure of Signs

Abstract

This article focuses on humor in Brazilian Sign Language (Libras) used by Deaf children and adults, investigating the relationship between language play and humor in Libras and its role in Deaf culture. Despite research in other sign languages (for example, in American, British, Italian, and Portuguese Sign Languages), academic research has not yet explored this important concept in Libras. Following Bergson's (2003) ideas about the foundations of humor and building on pioneering work on humor in sign languages by Klima and Bellugi (1979) and later Morgado (2011), we explore a range of examples of Libras humor. We consider those created through exaggeration and imitation and through modification of parameters to better understand the fundamentals of humor in Libras. We then apply our understanding of the role of handshape and exaggeration in Libras humor to the creation of short playful stories to serve as educational materials for young Deaf children and those acquiring Libras, considering its role in the construction of their understanding of their world experience as Deaf people. How young Deaf children relate language play to their interpretation of reality shows the importance of introducing them to humorous signing, and it highlights ways to help Deaf children's search for self-representation. We conclude that humor in Libras is a fundamental way for Deaf people of all ages to express their Deaf selves and life experiences.