Gospel parable and Orthodox joke: general and special

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to reveal the specifics of the Orthodox joke by comparing it with the Gospel parable having a similar function. Methodology. Within the framework of the cultural studies approach, the methods of comparative analysis, induction, and deduction were applied. Scientific novelty. The cultural studies analysis of the correlation between the Gospel parable and the Orthodox joke has been carried out for the first time, both unifying and specific characteristics to each of the phenomena have been identified. Conclusions. An Orthodox joke can be called a parable joke. A modern Orthodox joke has a number of characteristics of a parable: describing the particular situation, it is based on the Gospel teaching; like a parable, it has two layers: a form tied to modernity and a timeless deep religious moral meaning; its main goal is to raise the human mind from earthly to heavenly. At the same time, a number of specific characteristics do not allow us to identify them: the Orthodox joke is created based on modern material; unlike a parable, it involves a laughing reaction. The Orthodox joke (as a joke in form, but with a deep parable content) is able to easily penetrate the consciousness of a secular person who is tuned in to ease and not accustomed to reflection. In this way, Orthodoxy, as in the previous period of its existence, seeks to respond to the needs of the time, transforming the form, but not changing the deep essence of the teaching.

Key words: joke, parable, Orthodox anecdote, Gospel parable, metanarrative, modern Orthodox culture, secular society.