comedy vs drama compare and contrast essay

Comedy vs. Drama: What's the Difference?

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Comedy vs. Drama: Difference and Comparison

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Can dramas have humorous moments, what is the primary emotion targeted by comedy, which genre is older: comedy or drama, why do some plays combine elements of both comedy and drama, how do actors prepare differently for comedic vs. dramatic roles.

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What is the Difference Between Comedy and Drama?

Earnest Brown

Updated on: 22. May 2023

Comedy and drama are two of the most popular genres in the entertainment industry, but they have distinct characteristics and purposes. In this blog post, we will delve into the differences between these two forms of expression and explore why they both have a lasting impact on audiences. In the first few paragraphs, we will define what each genre entails and how they are typically represented in various mediums.

Comedy is a genre that uses humor to entertain its audience. It can be in the form of slapstick, satire, irony, or other comedic styles and can range from light-hearted to more sophisticated forms of humor. Comedies aim to make people laugh and help them forget their worries for a while. They are often light-hearted, upbeat and aim to bring a smile to the face of their audience.

Drama, on the other hand, is a genre that is focused on intense, emotional experiences, often with serious themes. Dramas aim to make people feel and reflect upon their own lives, and often use tension and conflict to create a sense of urgency. They often center around serious themes like death, loss, and betrayal, and aim to evoke strong emotions such as sadness, anger, and fear.

While comedies are intended to bring joy and lightness, dramas can be incredibly powerful in their ability to evoke intense emotions. Both comedy and drama have the power to entertain and engage, and both have their own unique qualities that make them special. In the following sections, we will examine these differences in greater detail.

Table of Contents

What is Comedy?

Comedy is a genre of entertainment that is designed to make people laugh. It can take many forms, from stand-up comedy and sitcoms to sketch comedy and slapstick. The main goal of comedy is to evoke humor and provide a lighthearted escape from the everyday world.

Comedies often use satire, irony, and absurdity to point out the humor in life’s situations and the quirks of human behavior. Some of the most famous comedians in history, such as Charlie Chaplin and Lucille Ball, used physical comedy to make audiences laugh. In more recent times, comedians such as Jerry Seinfeld, Ellen DeGeneres, and Louis C.K. have used witty observations and storytelling to create humor.

Comedy can also be found in movies , books, and even video games. The genre has a wide appeal and can be enjoyed by people of all ages. A well-crafted comedy can bring people together and help to relieve stress and anxiety.

Comedies can range from lighthearted and silly to more complex and thought-provoking. Some comedians use their platform to address important social and political issues in a humorous way. Stand-up comedy, for example, has been used as a tool for political satire and social commentary for centuries. In this way, comedy can be used to make a serious point while still making people laugh.

What is Drama?

Drama is a genre of storytelling that is meant to be serious, intense, and emotional. The main purpose of drama is to evoke strong feelings and emotions in the audience, such as fear, sadness, anger, or love. It often deals with complex social or personal issues and conflicts, and seeks to offer a deep exploration of human nature and relationships.

In drama, the story and the characters are the primary focus, and the audience is often drawn into the story through the experiences and emotions of the characters. Many dramas are based on real-life events, historical events, or fictional stories, and are designed to challenge the audience’s thoughts, beliefs, and values. Dramatic works can take the form of plays, movies, television shows , operas, and more.

Dramatic storytelling has been a part of human culture for thousands of years, and continues to be a popular form of entertainment. From ancient Greek tragedies to modern-day television dramas, the genre has evolved and adapted over time, but its core purpose remains the same: to entertain and educate the audience through powerful storytelling.

One of the key characteristics of drama is its use of tension, conflict, and emotional intensity to engage the audience. Whether it’s a family conflict, a political crisis, or a personal struggle, drama often explores the dark and challenging aspects of life, and seeks to offer a deeper understanding of the human condition.

What Are the Similarities Between Comedy and Drama?

Comedy and drama both have the goal of entertaining and engaging their audiences. They both aim to evoke emotions, whether it be laughter or tears, and provide a way for individuals to escape reality.

Despite the different outcomes they strive for, both comedy and drama can be found in various forms of media such as film, television, theatre, and books . They can also overlap with other genres, such as a romantic comedy or a dramatic thriller.

Comedy and drama often share common themes and elements, such as love, loss, and the human experience. Both can also tackle serious and thought-provoking subjects, with comedy often using humor as a way to address these issues in a lighter manner.

The use of humor and laughter in comedy can also serve as a release for audiences, allowing them to process difficult emotions in a healthier way. On the other hand, drama can be a way for individuals to confront and process their own personal struggles and emotions.

In conclusion, while comedy and drama may have different goals, they both play an important role in providing a form of escape and reflection for their audiences.

What Are the Differences Between Comedy and Drama?

Comedy and Drama are two different forms of storytelling that are widely recognized and appreciated in the entertainment industry. While both aim to entertain and engage the audience, there are a number of distinct differences between them.

First and foremost, the tone of Comedy and Drama are vastly different. Comedy is meant to be light-hearted and entertaining, and often includes humor, jokes, and puns to evoke laughter from the audience. On the other hand, Drama is serious in nature and often deals with heavy topics such as death, relationships, and social issues.

Another key difference between Comedy and Drama is their approach to character development. Comedy often features larger-than-life, exaggerated characters, while Drama focuses on character depth and development through realistic and complex personality traits.

Furthermore, the pace of Comedy and Drama can also be significantly different. Comedy often moves at a faster pace, with quick and witty dialogue and a large number of jokes and gags, while Drama is slower, with a more deliberate pace and longer dialogue scenes that build tension and suspense.

Finally, the structure of a Comedy and a Drama is different, with Comedies often following a more formulaic structure, while Dramas are more open-ended, allowing for more room for improvisation and exploration. Ultimately, while both Comedy and Drama have different purposes and styles, they both have the ability to captivate and entertain the audience in their own unique ways.

Conclusion: Comedy Vs. Drama

In conclusion, Comedy and Drama are two different genres of entertainment that have been around for centuries. While both have the ability to evoke emotions and entertain, they have distinct characteristics that set them apart from each other.

Comedy is characterized by humor, satire, and light-heartedness, while Drama is characterized by serious subject matter, intense emotions, and often a realistic portrayal of life. However, both Comedy and Drama have a role to play in entertaining audiences and showcasing human experiences and emotions.

Whether you prefer to laugh or be moved, there is a genre that is sure to meet your needs. The key is to understand the differences between Comedy and Drama and appreciate each genre for what it offers.

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Comedy vs. Drama — What's the Difference?

Difference Between Comedy and Drama

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The New York Times

The learning network | everyone’s a critic: analyzing sitcoms as cultural texts.

Everyone’s a Critic: Analyzing Sitcoms as Cultural Texts

Media Studies

Teaching ideas based on New York Times content.

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Overview | What can television sitcoms teach us? In this lesson, students investigate the claim recently made in The New York Times that new hit sitcoms are proof that “we’ve reached the End of Comedy.” They watch sitcoms with a critical eye and ultimately choose a writing project that demonstrates a close viewing that treats the shows like literary texts.

Materials | Computers with Internet access, chart paper and markers. Optional: television equipped with DVD or streaming video, DVDs of sitcoms.

Warm-Up | Ask students to define “sitcom,” which you might remind them is an abbreviation of “situation comedy,” by finding commonalities in the American comedy shows they watch. Features include humor, generally realistic events and characters, length of 30 minutes (minus commercial breaks) and resolution by the end of the episode. They also are usually scripted, use familiar settings like coffeehouses and are organized into seasons. Which sitcoms do they think are emblematic of the genre?

Students might briefly compare and contrast the sitcom with other television genres like sketch comedy, drama and reality. What overlaps can they identify? Do any shows straddle two or more genres? How important is it to watch sitcoms in the intended sequence, as compared with episodes of a drama or reality series?

Next, ask students what they think the purposes and benefits are of watching sitcoms. What role do they play in our culture? Do sitcoms offer cultural commentary, or are they just meant for mere entertainment? Is it worth critiquing and analyzing them? What cultural value do sitcoms have long after they have been broadcast?

Next, have the class brainstorm “stock” storylines, situations or gags they have seen multiple times in sitcoms, or which they imagine are not unique. Ask: How can a shopworn concept or conceit be made to seem “new” or “fresh” as opposed to merely recycled? Is using stock scenarios in contemporary shows evidence that sitcom writers have run out of ideas? Inform the class that they will now read an article by a Times television critic arguing that sitcoms have run out of fresh material.

Related | In “Naked Truth: New Sitcoms Are Re-Runs,” Neil Genzlinger gives his assessment of the newest crop of sitcoms, and concludes that the lack of innovation in these shows is a sign that “we’ve reached the End of Comedy”:

Certainly no series introduced this fall is breaking new ground. Ms. Deschanel’s show — her character moves in with three guys — is a role-reversed “Three’s Company.” “Up All Night” on NBC, with Christina Applegate and Will Arnett, is working new-parent territory explored 60 years ago by “I Love Lucy.” On “Last Man Standing,” Tim Allen is basically doing a Tim Allen impersonation, trying (unsuccessfully) to conjure the magic of his earlier show, “Home Improvement.” So it’s not that the new series are going places I’m not willing to follow; it’s that they are going places I’ve already been. After an exhaustive study that consisted of watching several new shows and several old ones, I have concluded that all television jokes going back to those first flickering black-and-white images fall into one of five categories. All those categories have been worked so heavily and so well in the past that comedic time has shrunk and comedic tone has degenerated; shows don’t want to risk building their humor slowly or subtly because they’re afraid audiences have already seen too many dumb-dad or balky-toaster bits and will grow impatient.

Read the entire article with your class, using the questions below.

Questions | For discussion and reading comprehension:

• Why does Mr. Genzlinger dispute other critics’ claims that the sitcom has made a comeback?
• What five categories of jokes does he say the new shows employ?
• How can the concept of using (or not using) subtlety to get laughs changed in the past 20 years?
• How has the speed of jokes’ unfolding changed?
• What evidence does Mr. Genzlinger offer to back his claim that even viewers much younger than him are tired of “rehashing” the same jokes?

RELATED RESOURCES

From the learning network.

• That’s Funny: Comedy Across the Curriculum
• Student Opinion: What Is Your Favorite Comedy?
• Student Opinion: Does Pop Culture Deserve Serious Study?

From NYTimes.com

• In a Gloomy Economy, T.V. Sitcoms Are Making a Comeback
• Interactive Feature: The New York Times’ Fall TV Ratings Pool
• Old Sitcoms as Telling Time Capsules

Around the Web

• Classic TV Database
• Great Moments in Sitcom History: A Eulogy
• Pivotal Sitcoms in TV History

Activity | Begin with the argument Mr. Genzlinger made that “The New Girl” is a “role-reversed Three’s Company.” Watch the same clip—or others—from “Three’s Company” and then watch parts of “The New Girl” episodes to test the theory that Jess is like Jack Tripper.

Then put “The New Girl” through the same questions from the warm-up: Who are these people? Where are they? Why are they together? What can you tell about them from what they say, how they look, how they interact with one another? What, if anything, does the show say about life, friendship, relationships between women and men and so on? Then ask: Does the show imitate real life? Do people you know act like this? Do you think people try to act like these characters? If so, who and why? Do you think in 1980, people imitated—or were imitated by—the characters on “Three’s Company”? Are shows like “The New Girl” entering the mainstream and becoming part of our shared cultural shorthand and vernacular?

Alternatively or additionally, show the two “feeding the baby” scenes that Mr. Genzlinger mentioned, from “Third Rock from the Sun” (1996) and “Up All Night” (2011).

Tell students that how they “read” a sitcom will be the basis for the rest of this lesson, drawing on how they have analyzed works of literature, drama, film or visual arts. Here are some ways to approach a sitcom analysis project:

Single Show Theory: Students choose one sitcom to be the subject of an in-depth study. They “read” what the situations, plots, dialogue, sets and characters to determine what, if anything, the show reflects about real life at the time of its making. They pull examples from across several episodes, or across the series (if working with a long-running show like “Seinfeld” or “The Simpsons”). They write essays that suggest the show’s worldview and whether it changes over time. For a creative option, students suppose that the world created by the show is the actual world and they live in it—what would their character be like? What struggles and triumphs would they likely encounter? Is it a limiting or limitless world?

Is Everything Old New Again?: As in the “Three’s Company”/”New Girl” comparison, students find a category into which two or more shows fit, like families with kids, shows about teens, college life, workplace , hospital or school settings, those that have single parents, multigenerational households, the “fish out of water” and so on. They write mock memos to a television executive about how each show, drawing examples from various episodes, approaches the common topic and weigh in on whether they believe the topic is “tired” and should not be recycled in future shows, or whether the shows investigated prove that it’s possible to “make it new.”

Tracing the Progress: How are affinity groups depicted in sitcoms? Students choose a specific group, like women, homosexuals, people of color or the handicapped, and investigate how sitcoms depict the group over time. They write an analysis of how television sitcoms have, or haven’t, evolved to be more inclusive, and what the shows may have reflected in the larger culture at the time.

Generational Viewing: Students plan an event in which they watch and discuss television shows with people of different ages, including, if possible, episodes that were favorites of each person when he or she was 13 or 14. They share what the show said about the world at the time, any aspects that were considered provocative at the time and make any observations about how sitcoms have changed over time, even including the words characters use, how long it takes for action or a joke to develop, and of course, any commonalities. Students write a reflection on the experience.

Investigative Viewing: Students choose a topic to investigate over time in the course of sitcom history. These might include big issues like the concept of family, signifiers of social class or the use of euphemisms and explicit references. Or they might look into the frequency with which characters do mundane things like household chores or homework. They choose a series of shows to watch and pull examples to back their argument about the topic and write a researched essay on their findings.

Character Study: Students find a character from a sitcom to study as they would a character from literature. What are the character’s strengths, flaws, motivations and dreams? How does he or she act? Who are the people around him or her? Are any of them foils? They use events and dialogue from the show as evidence. They then look for other characters, from other sitcoms or from literature to compare. For example, someone working with Jenna Hamilton from the MTV sitcom “Awkward” might also study the Stratford sisters from “10 Things I Hate About You,” Lindsay Weir from “Freaks and Geeks,” Daria Morgendorffer from “Daria” or Mallory Keaton from “Family Ties.” Students write a compare-and-contrast essay about the characters.

Sitcom Critics Unite: Students delve into lists that cover many decades of sitcom history, choosing a handful of shows they have never seen. They find and watch a few episodes of each one, taking notes on the humor, acting, level of complexity, uniqueness of the plot or perspective, and so on. They observe any commonalities. They make podcasts or videos that feature their critiques.

Going Further | Students choose a year from the primetime schedule for network television , then do research to discover which shows are sitcoms. (Those working with shows from the 1980’s and 1990’s will find video montages of titles and casts of sitcoms helpful here.) Students learn about the shows, watch as many episodes as they can, and write a critique that identifies each show’s strengths and weaknesses, and if warranted, has a Neil Genzlinger-style “roundup” of jokes or show elements that borrow from older shows, or seem like “copycat” aspects within the group being studied. Students present their groups in chronological order, chiming in when someone discusses a long-running show that they also critiqued.

Students can also hold a sitcom festival using video-sharing Web sites to locate relevant scenes, providing commentary about their selections and what they illustrate about sitcoms and popular culture.

Standards | This lesson is correlated to McREL’s national standards (it can also be aligned to the new Common Core State Standards ):

Art Connections 1. Understands connections among the various art forms and other disciplines.

Behavioral Studies 1. Understands that group and cultural influences contribute to human development, identity, and behavior. 2. Understands various meanings of social group, general implications of group membership, and different ways that groups function.

Arts and Communication 1. Understands the principles, processes, and products associated with arts and communication media. 2. Knows and applies appropriate criteria to arts and communication products. 3. Uses critical and creative thinking in various arts and communication settings. 4. Understands ways in which the human experience is transmitted and reflected in the arts and communication. 5. Knows a range of arts and communication works from various historical and cultural periods.

Language Arts 1. Uses the general skills and strategies of the writing process. 2. Uses the stylistic and rhetorical aspects of writing. 3. Uses grammatical and mechanical conventions in written compositions. 4. Gathers and uses information for research purposes. 5. Uses the general skills and strategies of the reading process. 7. Uses skills and strategies to read a variety of informational texts. 8. Uses listening and speaking strategies for different purposes. 9. Uses viewing skills and strategies to understand and interpret visual media. 10. Understands the characteristics and components of the media.

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I agree that there’s lack of innovation in sitcome, the same ideas were essentially recycled over and over again. At the same time, I think it still works because the audience hasn’t changed much, we as people still appeal to the same things as people from 50, 60 years ago. however, I would like to see more subtlety in the sexual jokes in modern day sitcom, it’s just not pretty to hear certain over and over again out loud.

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Comedy vs drama: which genre reigns supreme.

This article will delve into the world of comedy and drama, comparing their unique aspects, to help you decide which genre better resonates with your taste in entertainment.

Comedy is a genre of entertainment, including film, television, and live performances, characterized by humor, satire, and wit aimed to amuse the audience.

Stress relief

Comedy can help relieve stress by promoting laughter and relaxation, which can improve mood and overall well-being.

Social bonding

Comedy brings people together, fostering connections and strengthening bonds between friends and family.

Intellectual stimulation

Many comedy forms, such as satire, offer insightful commentary on current events and society, encouraging critical thinking.

Cultural exchange

Comedy allows for the exploration and sharing of different cultures and perspectives through humor, fostering understanding and empathy.

Offensive humor

Some comedy can be offensive or insensitive, alienating and upsetting certain individuals or groups.

Subjectivity

Humor is highly subjective, and what one person finds funny, another may not, leading to potential disagreements.

Short-lived impact

The positive effects of comedy can be fleeting, as the sense of amusement or happiness can fade quickly.

Reinforcement of stereotypes

Comedy can sometimes perpetuate harmful stereotypes by using them as a source of humor, leading to negative consequences for marginalized groups.

Drama (movie genres)

Drama is a genre of film and television, characterized by emotionally-charged narratives, realistic settings, and complex characters that evoke strong feelings and provoke thought in audiences.

Emotional resonance

Drama films can evoke a deep emotional response from viewers, allowing them to connect with the story and characters on a personal level.

Thought-provoking

Dramatic films often present complex social, moral, or philosophical issues, prompting viewers to reflect on their own beliefs and values.

Character development

Drama provides opportunities for in-depth character exploration, resulting in rich, multi-dimensional portrayals that audiences can relate to.

Artistic expression

The dramatic genre offers filmmakers a platform to showcase their creative vision and storytelling skills, often resulting in powerful and visually-stunning productions.

Emotionally draining

Watching drama films can be emotionally taxing for some viewers, leaving them feeling drained or upset after viewing.

Dramatic films may deal with heavy themes and subject matter, which may not be suitable for allaudiences.

Lack of variety

Drama films often lack the action, humor, or suspense of other genres, which may limit their appeal for some viewers.

Dependence on strong writing

The success of a drama film often hinges on the quality of its screenplay, and a weak script can result in a poorly-received production.

Which genre is more popular, comedy or drama?

Popularity varies depending on personal preferences and trends, but both comedy and drama enjoy large followings in the entertainment industry.

Are there any hybrid genres that combine comedy and drama?

Yes, dramedy is a popular hybrid genre that blends elements of both comedy and drama, offering a balanced mix of humor and emotion.

Can comedy and drama teach important life lessons?

Absolutely, both genres can deliver meaningful messages and life lessons, either through humor or poignant storytelling.

Is there a specific age group that prefers comedy over drama or vice versa?

Preferences can vary greatly among individuals, but younger audiences may lean towards comedy while older audiences may appreciate drama's depth and complexity.

Alternatives

What are the alternatives to Comedy and Drama (movie genres) ?

Action films focus on adrenaline-pumping sequences, such as chases and fights, appealing to thrill-seekers.

Science Fiction

Science fiction explores imaginative and futuristic concepts, often engaging audiences with unique worlds and ideas.

Ultimately, whether you prefer comedy or drama depends on your personal tastes and what you seek in entertainment. Both genres offer unique experiences that can enrich your life.

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Stand-up comedy vs. improv comedy: which hilarious experience is right for you, xbox series x vs playstation 5: gaming titans face-off, vinyl records vs digital music: the beat of audio evolution, broadway vs west end: the curtain rises on the theatre showdown, roller coasters vs. water slides: which offers more thrills, blog or podcast: the ultimate debate for content creators, el clásico uncovered: an inside look at real madrid and barcelona's riveting rivalry, real madrid vs manchester united: a detailed exploration of classic football rivalries, professional sports vs college sports: an in-depth comparison, marvel vs dc: a battle of superheroes unfolding in comic universes.

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4.1: Introduction to Comparison and Contrast Essay

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The key to a good compare-and-contrast essay is to choose two or more subjects that connect in a meaningful way. Comparison and contrast is simply telling how two things are alike or different. The compare-and-contrast essay starts with a thesis that clearly states the two subjects that are to be compared, contrasted, or both. The thesis should focus on comparing, contrasting, or both.

Key Elements of the Compare and Contrast:

• A compare-and-contrast essay analyzes two subjects by either comparing them, contrasting them, or both.
• The purpose of writing a comparison or contrast essay is not to state the obvious but rather to illuminate subtle differences or unexpected similarities between two subjects.
• The thesis should clearly state the subjects that are to be compared, contrasted, or both, and it should state what is to be learned from doing so.
• Organize by the subjects themselves, one then the other.
• Organize by individual points, in which you discuss each subject in relation to each point.
• Use phrases of comparison or phrases of contrast to signal to readers how exactly the two subjects are being analyzed.

Objectives: By the end of this unit, you will be able to

• Identify compare & contrast relationships in model essays
• Construct clearly formulated thesis statements that show compare & contrast relationships
• Use pre-writing techniques to brainstorm and organize ideas showing a comparison and/or contrast
• Construct an outline for a five-paragraph compare & contrast essay
• Write a five-paragraph compare & contrast essay
• Use a variety of vocabulary and language structures that express compare & contrast essay relationships

Example Thesis: Organic vegetables may cost more than those that are conventionally grown, but when put to the test, they are definitely worth every extra penny.

Sample Paragraph:

Organic grown tomatoes purchased at the farmers’ market are very different from tomatoes that are grown conventionally. To begin with, although tomatoes from both sources will mostly be red, the tomatoes at the farmers’ market are a brighter red than those at a grocery store. That doesn’t mean they are shinier—in fact, grocery store tomatoes are often shinier since they have been waxed. You are likely to see great size variation in tomatoes at the farmers’ market, with tomatoes ranging from only a couple of inches across to eight inches across. By contrast, the tomatoes in a grocery store will be fairly uniform in size. All the visual differences are interesting, but the most important difference is the taste. The farmers’ market tomatoes will be bursting with flavor from ripening on the vine in their own time. However, the grocery store tomatoes are often close to being flavorless. In conclusion, the differences in organic and conventionally grown tomatoes are obvious in color, size and taste.

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34 Compelling Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Topics cover education, technology, pop culture, sports, animals, and more.

Do your writers need some inspiration? If you’re teaching students to write a compare and contrast essay, a strong example is an invaluable tool. This round-up of our favorite compare and contrast essays covers a range of topics and grade levels, so no matter your students’ interests or ages, you’ll always have a helpful example to share. You’ll find links to full essays about education, technology, pop culture, sports, animals, and more. (Need compare-and-contrast essay topic ideas? Check out our big list of compare and contrast essay topics! )

What is a compare and contrast essay?

• Education and parenting essays
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When choosing a compare and contrast essay example to include on this list, we considered the structure. A strong compare and contrast essay begins with an introductory paragraph that includes background context and a strong thesis. Next, the body includes paragraphs that explore the similarities and differences. Finally, a concluding paragraph restates the thesis, draws any necessary inferences, and asks any remaining questions.

A compare and contrast essay example can be an opinion piece comparing two things and making a conclusion about which is better. For example, “Is Tom Brady really the GOAT?” It can also help consumers decide which product is better suited to them. Should you keep your subscription to Hulu or Netflix? Should you stick with Apple or explore Android? Here’s our list of compare and contrast essay samples categorized by subject.

Education and Parenting Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Private school vs. public school.

Sample lines: “Deciding whether to send a child to public or private school can be a tough choice for parents. … Data on whether public or private education is better can be challenging to find and difficult to understand, and the cost of private school can be daunting. … According to the most recent data from the National Center for Education Statistics, public schools still attract far more students than private schools, with 50.7 million students attending public school as of 2018. Private school enrollment in the fall of 2017 was 5.7 million students, a number that is down from 6 million in 1999.”

Read the full essay: Private School vs. Public School at U.S. News and World Report

Homeschool vs. Public School: How Home Schooling Will Change Public Education

Sample lines: “Home schooling, not a present threat to public education, is nonetheless one of the forces that will change it. If the high estimates of the number of children in home schools (1.2 million) is correct, then the home-schooling universe is larger than the New York City public school system and roughly the size of the Los Angeles and Chicago public school systems combined. … Critics charge that three things are wrong with home schooling: harm to students academically; harm to society by producing students who are ill-prepared to function as democratic citizens and participants in a modern economy; and harm to public education, making it more difficult for other parents to educate their children. … It is time to ask whether home schooling, charters, and vouchers should be considered parts of a broad repertoire of methods that we as a society use to educate our children.”

Read the full essay: Homeschool vs. Public School: How Home Schooling Will Change Public Education at Brookings

Which parenting style is right for you?

Sample lines: “The three main types of parenting are on a type of ‘sliding scale’ of parenting, with permissive parenting as the least strict type of parenting. Permissive parenting typically has very few rules, while authoritarian parenting is thought of as a very strict, rule-driven type of parenting.”

Read the full essay: What Is Authoritative Parenting? at Healthline

Masked Education? The Benefits and Burdens of Wearing Face Masks in Schools During the Pandemic

Sample lines: “Face masks can prevent the spread of the virus SARS-CoV-2. … However, covering the lower half of the face reduces the ability to communicate. Positive emotions become less recognizable, and negative emotions are amplified. Emotional mimicry, contagion, and emotionality in general are reduced and (thereby) bonding between teachers and learners, group cohesion, and learning—of which emotions are a major driver. The benefits and burdens of face masks in schools should be seriously considered and made obvious and clear to teachers and students.”

Read the full essay: Masked Education? The Benefits and Burdens of Wearing Face Masks in Schools During the Pandemic at National Library of Medicine

To Ban or Not: What Should We Really Make of Book Bans?

Sample lines: “In recent years, book bans have soared in schools, reaching an all-time high in fall 2022. … The challenge of balancing parent concerns about ‘age appropriateness’ against the imperative of preparing students to be informed citizens is still on the minds of many educators today. … Such curricular decision-making  should  be left to the professionals, argues English/language arts instructional specialist Miriam Plotinsky. ‘Examining texts for their appropriateness is not a job that noneducators are trained to do,’ she wrote last year, as the national debate over censorship resurged with the news that a Tennessee district banned the graphic novel  Maus  just days before Holocaust Remembrance Day.”

Read the full essay: To Ban or Not: What Should We Really Make of Book Bans? at Education Week

Technology Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Netflix vs. hulu 2023: which is the best streaming service.

Sample lines: “Netflix fans will point to its high-quality originals, including  The Witcher ,  Stranger Things ,  Emily in Paris ,  Ozark , and more, as well as a wide variety of documentaries like  Cheer ,  The Last Dance ,  My Octopus Teacher , and many others. It also boasts a much larger subscription base, with more than 222 million subscribers compared to Hulu’s 44 million. Hulu, on the other hand, offers a variety of extras such as HBO and Showtime—content that’s unavailable on Netflix. Its price tag is also cheaper than the competition, with its $7/mo. starting price, which is a bit more palatable than Netflix’s $10/mo. starting price.”

Read the full essay: Netflix vs. Hulu 2023: Which is the best streaming service? at TV Guide

Kindle vs. Hardcover: Which is easier on the eyes?

Sample lines: “In the past, we would have to drag around heavy books if we were really into reading. Now, we can have all of those books, and many more, stored in one handy little device that can easily be stuffed into a backpack, purse, etc. … Many of us still prefer to hold an actual book in our hands. … But, whether you use a Kindle or prefer hardcover books or paperbacks, the main thing is that you enjoy reading. A story in a book or on a Kindle device can open up new worlds, take you to fantasy worlds, educate you, entertain you, and so much more.”

Read the full essay: Kindle vs. Hardcover: Which is easier on the eyes? at Books in a Flash

iPhone vs. Android: Which is better for you?

Sample lines: “The iPhone vs. Android comparison is a never-ending debate on which one is best. It will likely never have a real winner, but we’re going to try and help you to find your personal pick all the same. iOS 17 and Android 14—the latest versions of the two operating systems—both offer smooth and user-friendly experiences, and several similar or identical features. But there are still important differences to be aware of. … Owning an iPhone is a simpler, more convenient experience. There’s less to think about. … Android-device ownership is a bit harder. … Yet it’s simultaneously more freeing, because it offers more choice.”

Read the full essay: iPhone vs. Android: Which is better for you? at Tom’s Guide

Cutting the cord: Is streaming or cable better for you?

Sample lines: “Cord-cutting has become a popular trend in recent years, thanks to the rise of streaming services. For those unfamiliar, cord cutting is the process of canceling your cable subscription and instead, relying on streaming platforms such as Netflix and Hulu to watch your favorite shows and movies. The primary difference is that you can select your streaming services à la carte while cable locks you in on a set number of channels through bundles. So, the big question is: should you cut the cord?”

Read the full essay: Cutting the cord: Is streaming or cable better for you? at BroadbandNow

PS5 vs. Nintendo Switch

Sample lines: “The crux of the comparison comes down to portability versus power. Being able to migrate fully fledged Nintendo games from a big screen to a portable device is a huge asset—and one that consumers have taken to, especially given the Nintendo Switch’s meteoric sales figures. … It is worth noting that many of the biggest franchises like Call of Duty, Madden, modern Resident Evil titles, newer Final Fantasy games, Grand Theft Auto, and open-world Ubisoft adventures like Assassin’s Creed will usually skip Nintendo Switch due to its lack of power. The inability to play these popular games practically guarantees that a consumer will pick up a modern system, while using the Switch as a secondary device.”

Read the full essay: PS5 vs. Nintendo Switch at Digital Trends

What is the difference between Facebook and Instagram?

Sample lines: “Have you ever wondered what is the difference between Facebook and Instagram? Instagram and Facebook are by far the most popular social media channels used by digital marketers. Not to mention that they’re also the biggest platforms used by internet users worldwide. So, today we’ll look into the differences and similarities between these two platforms to help you figure out which one is the best fit for your business.”

Read the full essay: What is the difference between Facebook and Instagram? at SocialBee

Digital vs. Analog Watches—What’s the Difference?

Sample lines: “In short, digital watches use an LCD or LED screen to display the time. Whereas, an analog watch features three hands to denote the hour, minutes, and seconds. With the advancement in watch technology and research, both analog and digital watches have received significant improvements over the years. Especially in terms of design, endurance, and accompanying features. … At the end of the day, whether you go analog or digital, it’s a personal preference to make based on your style, needs, functions, and budget.”

Read the full essay: Digital vs. Analog Watches—What’s the Difference? at Watch Ranker

AI Art vs. Human Art: A Side-by-Side Analysis

Sample lines: “Art has always been a reflection of human creativity, emotion, and cultural expression. However, with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), a new form of artistic creation has emerged, blurring the lines between what is created by human hands and what is generated by algorithms. … Despite the excitement surrounding AI Art, it also raises complex ethical, legal, and artistic questions that have sparked debates about the definition of art, the role of the artist, and the future of art production. … Regardless of whether AI Art is considered ‘true’ art, it is crucial to embrace and explore the vast possibilities and potential it brings to the table. The transformative influence of AI art on the art world is still unfolding, and only time will reveal its true extent.”

Read the full essay: AI Art vs. Human Art: A Side-by-Side Analysis at Raul Lara

Pop Culture Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Christina aguilera vs. britney spears.

Sample lines: “Britney Spears vs. Christina Aguilera was the Coke vs. Pepsi of 1999 — no, really, Christina repped Coke and Britney shilled for Pepsi. The two teen idols released debut albums seven months apart before the turn of the century, with Britney’s becoming a standard-bearer for bubblegum pop and Aguilera’s taking an R&B bent to show off her range. … It’s clear that Spears and Aguilera took extremely divergent paths following their simultaneous breakout successes.”

Read the full essay: Christina Aguilera vs. Britney Spears at The Ringer

Harry Styles vs. Ed Sheeran

Sample lines: “The world heard our fantasies and delivered us two titans simultaneously—we have been blessed with Ed Sheeran and Harry Styles. Our cup runneth over; our bounty is immeasurable. More remarkable still is the fact that both have released albums almost at the same time: Ed’s third, Divide , was released in March and broke the record for one-day Spotify streams, while Harry’s frenziedly anticipated debut solo, called Harry Styles , was released yesterday.”

Read the full essay: Harry Styles versus Ed Sheeran at Belfast Telegraph

The Grinch: Three Versions Compared

Sample lines: “Based on the original story of the same name, this movie takes a completely different direction by choosing to break away from the cartoony form that Seuss had established by filming the movie in a live-action form. Whoville is preparing for Christmas while the Grinch looks down upon their celebrations in disgust. Like the previous film, The Grinch hatches a plan to ruin Christmas for the Who’s. … Like in the original Grinch, he disguises himself as Santa Claus, and makes his dog, Max, into a reindeer. He then takes all of the presents from the children and households. … Cole’s favorite is the 2000 edition, while Alex has only seen the original. Tell us which one is your favorite.”

Read the full essay: The Grinch: Three Versions Compared at Wooster School

Historical and Political Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Malcolm x vs. martin luther king jr.: comparison between two great leaders’ ideologies .

Sample lines: “Although they were fighting for civil rights at the same time, their ideology and way of fighting were completely distinctive. This can be for a plethora of reasons: background, upbringing, the system of thought, and vision. But keep in mind, they devoted their whole life to the same prospect. … Through boycotts and marches, [King] hoped to end racial segregation. He felt that the abolition of segregation would improve the likelihood of integration. Malcolm X, on the other hand, spearheaded a movement for black empowerment.”

Read the full essay: Malcolm X vs. Martin Luther King Jr.: Comparison Between Two Great Leaders’ Ideologies  at Melaninful

Contrast Between Obama and Trump Has Become Clear

Sample lines: “The contrast is even clearer when we look to the future. Trump promises more tax cuts, more military spending, more deficits and deeper cuts in programs for the vulnerable. He plans to nominate a coal lobbyist to head the Environmental Protection Agency. … Obama says America must move forward, and he praises progressive Democrats for advocating Medicare for all. … With Obama and then Trump, Americans have elected two diametrically opposed leaders leading into two very different directions.”

Read the full essay: Contrast Between Obama and Trump Has Become Clear at Chicago Sun-Times

Sports Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Lebron james vs. kobe bryant: a complete comparison.

Sample lines: “LeBron James has achieved so much in his career that he is seen by many as the greatest of all time, or at least the only player worthy of being mentioned in the GOAT conversation next to Michael Jordan. Bridging the gap between Jordan and LeBron though was Kobe Bryant, who often gets left out of comparisons and GOAT conversations. … Should his name be mentioned more though? Can he compare to LeBron or is The King too far past The Black Mamba in historical rankings already?”

Read the full essay: LeBron James vs. Kobe Bryant: A Complete Comparison at Sportskeeda

NFL: Tom Brady vs. Peyton Manning Rivalry Comparison

Sample lines: “Tom Brady and Peyton Manning were largely considered the best quarterbacks in the NFL for the majority of the time they spent in the league together, with the icons having many head-to-head clashes in the regular season and on the AFC side of the NFL Playoffs. Manning was the leader of the Indianapolis Colts of the AFC South. … Brady spent his career as the QB of the AFC East’s New England Patriots, before taking his talents to Tampa Bay. … The reality is that winning is the most important aspect of any career, and Brady won more head-to-head matchups than Manning did.”

Read the full essay: NFL: Tom Brady vs. Peyton Manning Rivalry Comparison at Sportskeeda

The Greatest NBA Franchise Ever: Boston Celtics or Los Angeles Lakers?

Sample lines: “The Celtics are universally considered as the greatest franchise in NBA history. But if you take a close look at the numbers, there isn’t really too much separation between them and their arch-rival Los Angeles Lakers. In fact, you can even make a good argument for the Lakers. … In 72 seasons played, the Boston Celtics have won a total of 3,314 games and lost 2,305 or a .590 winning mark. On the other hand, the Los Angeles Lakers have won 3,284 of 5,507 total games played or a slightly better winning record of .596. … But while the Lakers have the better winning percentage, the Celtics have the advantage over them in head-to-head competition.”

Read the full essay: The Greatest NBA Franchise Ever: Boston Celtics or Los Angeles Lakers? at Sport One

Is Soccer Better Than Football?

Sample lines: “Is soccer better than football? Soccer and football lovers have numerous reasons to support their sport of choice. Both keep the players physically fit and help to bring people together for an exciting cause. However, soccer has drawn more numbers globally due to its popularity in more countries.”

Read the full essay: Is Soccer Better Than Football? at Sports Brief

Lifestyle Choices Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Mobile home vs. tiny house: similarities, differences, pros & cons.

Sample lines: “Choosing the tiny home lifestyle enables you to spend more time with those you love. The small living space ensures quality bonding time rather than hiding away in a room or behind a computer screen. … You’ll be able to connect closer to nature and find yourself able to travel the country at any given moment. On the other hand, we have the mobile home. … They are built on a chassis with transportation in mind. … They are not built to be moved on a constant basis. … While moving the home again *is* possible, it may cost you several thousand dollars.”

Read the full essay: Mobile Home vs. Tiny House: Similarities, Differences, Pros & Cons at US Mobile Home Pros

Whole Foods vs. Walmart: The Story of Two Grocery Stores

Sample lines: “It is clear that both stores have very different stories and aims when it comes to their customers. Whole Foods looks to provide organic, healthy, exotic, and niche products for an audience with a very particular taste. … Walmart, on the other hand, looks to provide the best deals, every possible product, and every big brand for a broader audience. … Moreover, they look to make buying affordable and accessible, and focus on the capitalist nature of buying.”

Read the full essay: Whole Foods vs. Walmart: The Story of Two Grocery Stores at The Archaeology of Us

Artificial Grass vs. Turf: The Real Differences Revealed

Sample lines: “The key difference between artificial grass and turf is their intended use. Artificial turf is largely intended to be used for sports, so it is shorter and tougher. On the other hand, artificial grass is generally longer, softer and more suited to landscaping purposes. Most homeowners would opt for artificial grass as a replacement for a lawn, for example. Some people actually prefer playing sports on artificial grass, too … artificial grass is often softer and more bouncy, giving it a feel similar to playing on a grassy lawn. … At the end of the day, which one you will choose will depend on your specific household and needs.”

Read the full essay: Artificial Grass vs. Turf: The Real Differences Revealed at Almost Grass

Minimalism vs. Maximalism: Differences, Similarities, and Use Cases

Sample lines: “Maximalists love shopping, especially finding unique pieces. They see it as a hobby—even a skill—and a way to express their personality. Minimalists don’t like shopping and see it as a waste of time and money. They’d instead use those resources to create memorable experiences. Maximalists desire one-of-a-kind possessions. Minimalists are happy with duplicates—for example, personal uniforms. … Minimalism and maximalism are about being intentional with your life and belongings. It’s about making choices based on what’s important to you.”

Read the full essay: Minimalism vs. Maximalism: Differences, Similarities, and Use Cases at Minimalist Vegan

Vegetarian vs. Meat Eating: Is It Better To Be a Vegetarian?

Sample lines: “You’ve heard buzz over the years that following a vegetarian diet is better for your health, and you’ve probably read a few magazine articles featuring a celeb or two who swore off meat and animal products and ‘magically’ lost weight. So does ditching meat automatically equal weight loss? Will it really help you live longer and be healthier overall? … Vegetarians appear to have lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure  and lower rates of hypertension and type 2 diabetes than meat eaters. Vegetarians also tend to have a lower body mass index, lower overall cancer rates and lower risk of chronic disease. But if your vegetarian co-worker is noshing greasy veggie burgers and fries every day for lunch, is he likely to be healthier than you, who always orders the grilled salmon? Definitely not!”

Read the full essay: Vegetarian vs. Meat Eating: Is It Better To Be a Vegetarian? at WebMD

Healthcare Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Similarities and differences between the health systems in australia & usa.

Sample lines: “Australia and the United States are two very different countries. They are far away from each other, have contrasting fauna and flora, differ immensely by population, and have vastly different healthcare systems. The United States has a population of 331 million people, compared to Australia’s population of 25.5 million people.”

Read the full essay: Similarities and Differences Between the Health Systems in Australia & USA at Georgia State University

Universal Healthcare in the United States of America: A Healthy Debate

Sample lines: “Disadvantages of universal healthcare include significant upfront costs and logistical challenges. On the other hand, universal healthcare may lead to a healthier populace, and thus, in the long-term, help to mitigate the economic costs of an unhealthy nation. In particular, substantial health disparities exist in the United States, with low socio-economic status segments of the population subject to decreased access to quality healthcare and increased risk of non-communicable chronic conditions such as obesity and type II diabetes, among other determinants of poor health.”

Read the full essay: Universal Healthcare in the United States of America: A Healthy Debate at National Library of Medicine

Pros and Cons of Physician Aid in Dying

Sample lines: “Physician aid in dying is a controversial subject raising issues central to the role of physicians. … The two most common arguments in favor of legalizing AID are respect for patient autonomy and relief of suffering. A third, related, argument is that AID is a safe medical practice, requiring a health care professional. … Although opponents of AID offer many arguments ranging from pragmatic to philosophical, we focus here on concerns that the expansion of AID might cause additional, unintended harm through suicide contagion, slippery slope, and the deaths of patients suffering from depression.”

Read the full essay: Pros and Cons of Physician Aid in Dying at National Library of Medicine

Animals Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Compare and contrast paragraph—dogs and cats.

Sample lines: “Researchers have found that dogs have about twice the number of neurons in their cerebral cortexes than what cats have. Specifically, dogs had around 530 million neurons, whereas the domestic cat only had 250 million neurons. Moreover, dogs can be trained to learn and respond to our commands, but although your cat understands your name, and anticipates your every move, he/she may choose to ignore you.”

Read the full essay: Compare and Contrast Paragraph—Dogs and Cats at Proofwriting Guru via YouTube

Giddyup! The Differences Between Horses and Dogs

Sample lines: “Horses are prey animals with a deep herding instinct. They are highly sensitive to their environment, hyper aware, and ready to take flight if needed. Just like dogs, some horses are more confident than others, but just like dogs, all need a confident handler to teach them what to do. Some horses are highly reactive and can be spooked by the smallest things, as are dogs. … Another distinction between horses and dogs … was that while dogs have been domesticated , horses have been  tamed. … Both species have influenced our culture more than any other species on the planet.”

Read the full essay: Giddyup! The Differences Between Horses and Dogs at Positively Victoria Stilwell

Exotic, Domesticated, and Wild Pets

Sample lines: “Although the words ‘exotic’ and ‘wild’ are frequently used interchangeably, many people do not fully understand how these categories differ when it comes to pets. ‘A wild animal is an indigenous, non-domesticated animal, meaning that it is native to the country where you are located,’ Blue-McLendon explained. ‘For Texans, white-tailed deer, pronghorn sheep, raccoons, skunks, and bighorn sheep are wild animals … an exotic animal is one that is wild but is from a different continent than where you live.’ For example, a hedgehog in Texas would be considered an exotic animal, but in the hedgehog’s native country, it would be considered wildlife.”

Read the full essay: Exotic, Domesticated, and Wild Pets at Texas A&M University

Should Zoos Be Banned? Pros & Cons of Zoos

Sample lines: “The pros and cons of zoos often come from two very different points of view. From a legal standard, animals are often treated as property. That means they have less rights than humans, so a zoo seems like a positive place to maintain a high quality of life. For others, the forced enclosure of any animal feels like an unethical decision. … Zoos provide a protected environment for endangered animals, and also help in raising awareness and funding for wildlife initiatives and research projects. … Zoos are key for research. Being able to observe and study animals is crucial if we want to contribute to help them and repair the ecosystems. … Zoos are a typical form of family entertainment, but associating leisure and fun with the contemplation of animals in captivity can send the wrong signals to our children.”

Read the full essay: Should Zoos Be Banned? Pros & Cons of Zoos at EcoCation

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80 Intriguing Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for Kids and Teens

Android vs. iPhone? Capitalism vs. communism? Hot dog vs. taco? Continue Reading

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101 Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Great Ideas for Essays

• Teaching Resources
• An Introduction to Teaching
• Tips & Strategies
• Policies & Discipline
• Community Involvement
• School Administration
• Technology in the Classroom
• Teaching Adult Learners
• Issues In Education
• Becoming A Teacher
• Assessments & Tests
• Elementary Education
• Secondary Education
• Special Education
• Homeschooling
• M.Ed., Curriculum and Instruction, University of Florida
• B.A., History, University of Florida

Compare and contrast essays are taught in school for many reasons. For one thing, they are relatively easy to teach, understand, and format. Students can typically understand the structure with just a short amount of instruction. In addition, these essays allow students develop critical thinking skills to approach a variety of topics.

Brainstorming Tip

One fun way to get students started brainstorming their compare and contrast essays is to create a Venn diagram , where the overlapping sections of the circle contain similarities and the non-overlapping areas contain the differing traits.

Following is a list of 101 topics for compare and contrast essays that you are welcome to use in your classroom. As you look through the list you will see that some items are academic in nature while others are included for interest-building and fun writing activities.

• Apple vs. Microsoft
• Coke vs. Pepsi
• Renaissance Art vs. Baroque Art
• Antebellum Era vs. Reconstruction Era in American History
• Childhood vs. Adulthood
• Star Wars vs. Star Trek
• Biology vs. Chemistry
• Astrology vs. Astronomy
• American Government vs. British Government (or any world government)
• Fruits vs. Vegetables
• Dogs vs. Cats
• Ego vs. Superego
• Christianity vs. Judaism (or any world religion )
• Republican vs. Democrat
• Monarchy vs. Presidency
• US President vs. UK Prime Minister
• Jazz vs. Classical Music
• Red vs. White (or any two colors)
• Soccer vs. Football
• North vs. South Before the Civil War
• New England Colonies vs. Middle Colonies OR vs. Southern Colonies
• Cash vs. Credit Cards
• Sam vs. Frodo Baggins
• Gandalf vs. Dumbledore
• Fred vs. Shaggy
• Rap vs. Pop
• Articles of Confederation vs. U.S. Constitution
• Henry VIII vs. King Louis XIV
• Stocks vs. Bonds
• Monopolies vs. Oligopolies
• Communism vs. Capitalism
• Socialism vs. Capitalism
• Diesel vs. Petroleum
• Nuclear Power vs. Solar Power
• Saltwater Fish vs. Freshwater Fish
• Squids vs. Octopus
• Mammals vs. Reptiles
• Baleen vs. Toothed Whales
• Seals vs. Sea Lions
• Crocodiles vs. Alligators
• Bats vs. Birds
• Oven vs. Microwave
• Greek vs. Roman Mythology
• Chinese vs. Japanese
• Comedy vs. Drama
• Renting vs. Owning
• Mozart vs. Beethoven
• Online vs. Traditional Education
• North vs. South Pole
• Watercolor vs. Oil
• 1984 vs. Fahrenheit 451
• Emily Dickinson vs. Samuel Taylor Coleridge
• W.E.B. DuBois vs. Booker T. Washington
• Strawberries vs. Apples
• Airplanes vs. Helicopters
• Hitler vs. Napoleon
• Roman Empire vs. British Empire
• Paper vs. Plastic
• Italy vs. Spain
• Baseball vs. Cricket
• Jefferson vs. Adams
• Thoroughbreds vs. Clydesdales
• Spiders vs. Scorpions
• Northern Hemisphere vs. Southern Hemisphere
• Hobbes vs. Locke
• Friends vs. Family
• Dried Fruit vs. Fresh
• Porcelain vs. Glass
• Modern Dance vs. Ballroom Dancing
• American Idol vs. The Voice
• Reality TV vs. Sitcoms
• Picard vs. Kirk
• Books vs. Movies
• Magazines vs. Comic Books
• Antique vs. New
• Public vs. Private Transportation
• Email vs. Letters
• Facebook vs. Twitter
• Coffee vs. an Energy Drink
• Toads vs. Frogs
• Profit vs. Non-Profit
• Boys vs. Girls
• Birds vs. Dinosaurs
• High School vs. College
• Chamberlain vs. Churchill
• Offense vs. Defense
• Jordan vs. Bryant
• Harry vs. Draco
• Roses vs. Carnations
• Poetry vs. Prose
• Fiction vs. Nonfiction
• Lions vs. Tigers
• Vampires vs. Werewolves
• Lollipops vs. popsicles
• Summer vs. Winter
• Recycling vs. Landfill
• Motorcycle vs. Bicycle
• Halogen vs. Incandescent
• Newton vs. Einstein
• . Go on vacation vs. Staycation
• Rock vs. Scissors
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Comedy vs. Tragedy: What’s the difference? (With table)

Comedies and tragedies are two of the most popular genres in literature, film, and theater. Though they are similar in some ways, they also have many important differences. Do you know them?

A tragedy is a form of drama that presents a serious subject, usually involving human suffering, and often ends with a death or disaster. A comedy, on the other hand, is a light-hearted work that typically ends with a happy ending.

In this blog post, I’ll get into more details about these elements, but also give you other things to consider to really understand the difference between a comedy and a tragedy.

Definitions of tragedy and comedy

Definition of a tragedy.

A tragedy is a form of drama that presents a serious subject matter, usually involving human suffering, and often ends with a death or disaster.

The word tragedy comes from the Greek word tragōidia, which means “goat song.” This likely refers to the ancient tradition of offering a goat to Dionysus, the god of wine and fertility, before tragedy performances.

Definition of a comedy

A comedy is another form of drama that presents a light-hearted subject matter and often ends with a happy ending.

The word comedy comes from the Greek word komoidía, which means “revel.” This likely refers to the ancient tradition of holding celebrations after successful tragedy performances.

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Origins of tragedy and comedy

The first tragedies were performed in Athens in the late 6th century BCE. These early tragedies were part of an annual festival honoring Dionysus, and they often featured choral songs and dances.

Some of the most famous tragedians from this period include Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides.

Comedy also has its roots in Ancient Greece. The first comedies were performed in Athens around the 5th century BCE as part of an annual festival honoring Dionysus.

Aristophanes is one of the most renowned writers of Ancient Greek comedy. His plays often poked fun at political figures and current events.

Comedy and tragedy have different goals

Though both genres can be enjoyable to watch or read, they serve different purposes.

Tragedy often attempts to provoke feelings of pity and fear, while comedy strives to entertain and amuse.

But these genres are not always easily differentiated. Many plays contain elements of both tragedy and comedy, and some scholars argue that all drama ultimately stems from a tragic root.

While death and disaster may be the stuff of tragedy, they are not necessarily required for a play to be classified as such. A tragedy can also be simply a story of human suffering that does not end happily.

Comedies, on the other hand, typically do have happy endings. But not all comedies are light-hearted and funny. Some may deal with more serious topics, using humor to ease the tension.

Themes treated by tragedies and comedies

General rule.

Tragedies often explore dark themes, such as fate, human nature, and the dark side of humanity. In contrast, comedies often focus on more light-hearted themes, such as love, relationships, and the human ability to overcome adversity.

Examples of tragedy and comedy

In movies, the difference between tragedy and comedy is generally easier to make, here are a few popular examples that should help you:

• Tragedy : Schindler’s List , The Pianist , Million Dollar Baby
• Comedy : Forrest Gump , The Hangover , Elf

You can also find tragedies and comedies in literature. Here are a few examples:

• Tragedy : Romeo and Juliet , Antony and Cleopatra
• Comedy : The Importance of Being Earnest , Twelfth Night

Plays are a bit more difficult to categorize because there are many that straddle the line between tragedy and comedy.

One famous example of a tragedy is William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. The story ends in the death of the two lovers, and is considered a tragedy because it deals with dark themes such as fate and human nature.

A comedy that explores more serious themes is Molière’s Tartuffe. This play is about a man who pretends to be pious in order to take advantage of others. While it does have some light-hearted moments, overall it is a more serious comedy than something like Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Key elements to distinguish tragedy and comedy

The line between tragedy and comedy is often blurry, but there are some key differences that can help to distinguish the two genres.

Tragedies usually involve:

• Serious topics and complex characters
• Stories with a dark or somber tone
• Protagonists who make tragic mistakes or have flaws that lead to their downfall
• Unhappy endings

Comedies usually involve:

• Humorous or light-hearted storylines
• Simple characters and situations
• Stories with a happy or optimistic ending
• Protagonists can overcome their obstacles

It is worth noting that some plays can be classified as both a tragedy and a comedy, depending on how they are interpreted. For example, William Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet is typically considered a tragedy because of its tragic ending, but it can also be seen as a comedy because it features young lovers who go through various trials and tribulations before ultimately being united.

7 main differences between a tragedy and a comedy

If you need to read only one section of this article, here are the key differences between tragedy and comedy that you should have in mind:

• A tragedy typically deals with more serious and important topics than a comedy.
• A tragedy usually has a more somber or dramatic tone, while a comedy is often lighter and more humorous.
• A tragedy often features characters who are struggling against powerful forces beyond their control, while in a comedy, the characters are often more ordinary people coping with everyday problems.
• A tragedy often ends in the death of one or more of the main characters, while a comedy typically has a happy ending.
• Tragedies are usually longer and more complex than comedies.
• The language used in a tragedy is often more elevated and poetic than in a comedy.
• Tragedies often explore universal themes like the human condition, while comedies are often more focused on specific situations or characters.

And here is a comparison table to make it easier to digest:

What are the similarities between a tragedy and a comedy?

Both genres often deal with universal themes, explore the human condition, and use elevated language. In addition, both genres typically have a clear plot structure with a beginning, middle, and end.

Can a tragedy be a comedy?

No, a tragedy cannot be a comedy. These are two forms of dramas that are opposite of each other.

How is a Shakespearean comedy different from a Shakespeare’s tragedy?

Shakespearean comedies are light-hearted, often involving mistaken identity, love triangles, and young lovers. They typically have a happy ending, in which all the characters are united.

Shakespearean tragedies are dark, often dealing with themes of betrayal, death, and revenge.

Is Romeo and Juliet a tragedy or a comedy?

Romeo and Juliet is a tragedy. While it has some comedic elements, the overall story is one of tragedy, with the death of the two young lovers as the ultimate outcome.

I am very curious and I love to learn about all types of subjects. Thanks to my experience on the web, I share my discoveries with you on this site :)

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Compare And Contrast Essay Guide

Compare And Contrast Essay Topics

Last updated on: Feb 9, 2023

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics: 100+ Fresh New Ideas

By: Barbara P.

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: Mar 10, 2020

A compare and contrast essay revolves around finding and analyzing the similarities and differences between two subjects belonging to the same category.

If you have been assigned a compare and contrast essay, then you’re probably looking for interesting topics that you can write on, right?

Steer forward with us!

Following is the list of interesting topics for a compare and contrast essay that you can use for your essay assignments. As you proceed, you will notice that some of the topics are academic, and others are included for interest.

On this Page

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for Students - 2022 Ideas

A compare and contrast essay is an important academic assignment for school or college students. An essential point that you must keep in mind when choosing a compare and contrast essay topic is to go for the subjects that belong to the same category. For instance, you can’t choose football and 19th-century art.

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for University Students

At the university level, the essay topics are a little different and unique. Also, with a good essay topic, you will easily create the thesis statement and body paragraphs.

If you want to write on a great topic, you can choose from the below-mentioned essay topics.

• Salt vs. sugar
• Teacher vs. Doctor
• Prose vs. poetry
• Short vs. long hair
• Psychosis and antisocial disorder
• Between soft and hard drugs, which is more dangerous?
• Difference between lust and love
• Compare methods of normal and abnormal psychology
• Silver and gold
• Tennis vs. badminton

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for College Students

When students step into college from high school, they are still used to the concept of teachers assigning essay topics. Sometimes the teacher gives you the topic, but you will have to pick one yourself most of the time. So, be creative and challenge yourself to write on different essay topics.

Topics for college students can be difficult to manage at times because teachers can have higher expectations. In such a case, get help from an online writing service with your academic paper.

The compare and contrast essay topics in college are a bit less complicated than in high school. The following are the easy compare and contrast essay topics for college students.

• How does high school differ from college?
• Students with or without part-time jobs
• Essay Vs. Research Paper: What is more challenging?
• Homeschooling Vs. Traditional Schooling
• SAT Vs. GRE: What is more difficult?
• Masters Vs. PhD: What helps strengthen your career?
• Differences between Islam and Christianity
• Introverts Vs. Extroverts
• Real-life dating Vs. Online dating
• How do education and employment compare?

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for High School Students

Essay topics for high school students are much different than the topics for college students. The topics are a little less technical and difficult.

Here are some great compare and contrast essay topics for your ease.

• Friends Vs. Family
• Childhood friendship Vs. High school friendship
• Bikes vs. cars.
• Study abroad Vs. Studying in your country
• Living on your own Vs. At home with my parents.
• Facebook vs. Twitter In-house employees Vs. Freelance contractors
• Texting Vs. In-person conversations
• Working out or dieting
• Being in a relationship or being single

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for Middle School Students

The topics for middle school students are quite interesting and creative. Therefore, the students enjoy the writing process.

We gathered some great compare and contrast essay topics for your help.

• Basketball Vs. Football
• Compare two plays written by Shakespeare
• Running Vs. Walking
• Reading vs. writing
• Doctor Vs. Nurse
• Breakdance Vs. Ballet: What is more difficult?
• World war I Vs. World War II
• Chocolate vs. Ice-cream
• Compare two of your favorite movies
• Reading books Vs. Watching movies

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for 6th Grade

The essay topics for grade 6 are very simple and easy. We collected some essay topics for grade 6 students; pick the one that you find interesting.

• School exams vs. college exams
• Winter holidays vs. summer holidays
• Comparative essay vs. argumentative essay
• Attending school vs. remote learning
• Driving a bike and driving a car
• Vegetables and fruits
• Christianity versus Judaism
• E-books versus textbooks
• An experience I agree to attend a party or stay at home.
• Steroids and boxing
• Handwriting or typing

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Psychology Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

There are certain pros and cons associated with psychology topics. The pros are that the possibilities are endless; one can write as much as possible. This fact is the con as well; since there is so much material to choose from for the essay topic.

• Anxiety vs. Depression
• Therapy vs. medication
• Agoraphobia Vs. Claustrophobia
• Compare suicide and homicide
• Autism Vs. Down syndrome
• B. F. Skinner theory Vs. John B. Watson theory
• Anorexia Vs. Bulimia
• Social anxiety or fear of public speaking
• Nature vs. nurture
• Ego Vs. Superego

Sports Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

The best part about the sports-related topic is the accurate data available online with practical examples. This fact can help you write an even more refined essay.

Take a look at these and topics and choose the best one for your essay.

• Women’s football team, Vs. Men’s
• Chess Vs. Checkers
• Football Vs. Cricket: Which is better?
• Sachin Tendulkar Vs. Ricky Ponting
• Roger Federer Vs. Rafael Nadal
• Rugby and Soccer
• Wayne Rooney and Lionel Messi
• Ice climbing Vs. Traditional climbing
• Knicks Vs. Nets
• Aikido Vs. Judo

For all the students who are in sports, these are the best kind of topics. As they say, you write best about subjects you are most interested in.

Art & History Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Writing a compare and contrast essay has its challenges and especially when the topics are art or history-related. Always make sure to gather the necessary data before kick-starting the essay.

• Baroque Vs. Mycenaean Period
• Mosaic Vs. Raku
• Compare the 19th Century Art
• Brunelleschi and The Romans
• Impressionism and Post-Impressionism
• Roxanna and Dorian Gray
• Compare Kafka's Metamorphosis and Albert Camus’ The Stranger
• Macbeth and Othello
• Tapestry Vs. Fresco

Funny Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Funny topics not only refresh the mind of the students but help in the learning process as well. Below given are some great essay topics that you can use for your essay.

• Beyonce Vs. Rihanna
• Kim Kardashian Vs. Paris Hilton
• Ellen DeGeneres Vs. Oprah Winfrey
• Pet dogs Vs. Pet cats
• Pasta vs. pizza
• Lollipops Vs. Popsicles
• Drama Vs. Comedy
• Email Vs. Pigeon Post
• Credit card Vs. Cash
• Star Trek Vs. Star Wars

Medical Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

The medical students are sometimes stuck with selecting the essay topic for their essay assignment. For your help, we compiled some excellent topics that will help in your writing phase.

• Religions that are against traditional medical procedures.
• Vaccination or Medications.
• Operations vs. therapeutic cancer curing.
• Should vaccinations be made mandatory?
• Morning exercise vs. evening exercise.
• Medical history and privacy concerns.
• Wheat and corn grain.
• Chocolate or candies.
• Carrot and pumpkin.
• Rest or training.

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Compare and Contrast Essay Topics on Movies

The compare and contrast essay on movies is an interesting type of essay. Look at these topics that will help in your topic-selection phase.

• Romeo and Juliet.
• Gandalf vs. Dumbledore.
• Comedy vs. horror.
• Harry Potter: book & movie.
• Thrillers and horror movies.
• Fantastic Four or Avengers.
• Bollywood Vs. Hollywood.
• DC or Marvel
• Superman vs. batman.
• Games of thrones vs. the witcher.

Are these topic ideas helpful? Did you get what you were looking for?

Now that you have chosen a topic for your essay, you can start composing it. For that, you have to follow a structured essay outline.

Do you still find it difficult to choose a topic or to write a compare and contrast essay step by step?

It is completely understandable, as essay writing can be tricky at times.

But don’t worry! We have got your back.

5StarEssays.com is a writing company that holds a remarkable place in the market due to its unbeatable services and customer satisfaction. Our highly qualified professionals are ready to take your orders round the clock.

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Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.

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127 Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

13 December, 2020

13 minutes read

Author:  Elizabeth Brown

Crafting a compare and contrast essay is typically much more interesting and fun than working on a dissertation. With this piece of writing, a student gets his chance to be creative. Besides, one doesn’t have to re-invent the bicycle: these essays already have a purpose and a topic. All you have to do is find similarities or differences between specific notions. And yes, there is one more problem to it.

Half of the success of a compare and contrast essay lies in a properly-chosen topic. Now, this can be tricky.

Just think about it: would want to read a piece on a beaten topic like “Books vs. Television”? Or would you rather give a read to an unusual compare and contrast Korean and Vietnam war essay? While you know everything about the first one, the second topic actually sounds interesting.

Choosing compare and contrast essay topics can be time-consuming and daunting. However, with the guide our  essay writer prepared, you will find a great title with no problem.

By the way, if you need a reminder of what such writing looks like and what components it consists of, don’t hesitate to read our guide on  how to write a compare and contrast essay . It will help you structure and organize your knowledge in this regard.

And here is a short introduction to what this type of academic writing should really look like.

How to write a compare and contrast essay

Depending on the task you received from your tutor, in this particular academic paper you are either to compare several things or notions or contrast them.

Here is what a structure of this type of writing looks like:

• An engaging opening with a “hook.”
• A thesis statement that explains what is the focus of your writing and whether you’ll be comparing or contrasting the notions.
• If you don’t know  how to write a thesis statement , here is a guide that will explain you all the details step by step.
• An argument #1 that supports the thesis statement.
• Evidence proving the author’s position.
• A short conclusion.
• A short reminder of a problem described in the essay.
• A brief overview of the similarities or differences (aka supporting arguments).
• A call to action or a interesting question to the audience.

Any A-grade essay would follow this structure. Thus, if you aim to receive better grades, consider taking this structure into account.

Meanwhile, as a student you get tons of other writing assignments. If you’re currently struggling with choosing good  argumentative essay topics , don’t hesitate to take a look at our recent guide!

Finally, let’s dive into the search. After all, this is a key to crafting an excellent piece.

What makes good compare and contrast essay topics

Several factors make some topics your best option compared to the rest.

No matter how great the topic of your choice is, the target audience can sense when you genuinely care about what you are writing, and when you’re simply following the structure with no personal interest in the subject. If you write yawning and find it hard to find any evidence to support your position, chances are you’ve chosen a wrong topic. A compare and contrast dog and cat essay might be a good topic for a person deeply loving these furry little creatures. But someone not that much into domestic animals won’t be able to write a single line of an essay comparing dogs and cats. So, choose your topic wisely.

Availability of trusted sources.

In some cases, you have to use trusted sources to prove your point. Otherwise, your position might seem biased and subjective. That is why we strongly recommend you to check whether the compare and contrast essay titles you opted can be supported by evidence found at the trusted sources.

Recommendation of a tutor.

Last but not least, ask for recommendations. With years of experience under his belt, your tutor might have an eye for great topics. So, why not using his experience for your own good? Besides, apart from good topics suggestions, he can also provide you with great sources to explore. So, don’t lose an opportunity to make your life easier with his assistance!

Proper formatting style.

Proper formatting is hard to overestimate when it comes to A-grade essay writing. A great deal of your grade depends on it. That is why we recommend you to check out our  essay format guide to figure out what your piece should look like.

These are the criteria that help you pick a good theme for your paper. But where should you look for theme to choose from in the first place? We know the answer.

If you aren’t sure you have the time and energy to craft a piece yourself, we’re here to help.  Handmade Writing is a reliable place to order your academic papers from.

Sources of interesting topics

Basically, there are six sources students can go to these days:

• Social media.
• Scientific journals.

Each one of them is filled with personalities, facts, events, and locations to contrast and compare. Therefore, don’t hesitate to explore these right sources.

By the way, if you are looking for ideas or inspiration on  how to write a scholarship essay , we’ve got something for you. We’ve gathered a guide that will walk you step by step through the process of composing a good essay that’ll get you college scholarship!

Easy compare and contrast essay topics for college students

• High school vs college.
• McDonalds and Burger King: Explain how these two fast food chains similar or different from each other.
• Public schools and homeschooling: Which do you prefer?
• Basketball and football: Popularity, speed of play, dependency on athleticism, personal preference, etc.
• Lamborgini vs. Bugatti.
• Virtual vs. Augmented reality: Which technology is the future?
• Star Wars vs. Star Trek: Which is better?
• Communism vs. Socialism: The good, the bad, and the ugly.
• American English vs British English.
• Conventional or E-learning: What would you choose?
• Computer and video games: Which is more fun?
• Inner beauty and outer beauty.
• Snapchat and Instagram: What makes them similar (different)?
• Stalin or Hitler: Which is a bigger evil? Or what in their management style was similar?
• Living in the big city or living in the country: What would you choose?
• Italian vs. Spanish cuisines.
• Active vacation in the mountains vs. passive rest by the sea.
• Facebook vs. Twitter.
• Windows vs. Linux.
• Android or iOS: Which is the future?

Funny compare and contrast essay topics

• Chandler, Joey and Ross: Which one of them is cooler?
• Pizza or pasta: If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, which of these would you choose?
• Batman vs. SuperMan;  Avengers vs. Justice League.
• Soccer vs football: How are they different apart from their name?
• Iron Man or Hulk: Which one is the best superhero of his time?
• Michael Jackson vs. Elvis Presley.
• George and Lennie.
• Harry Potter vs. Ronald Weasley: One is way cooler than the other.
• Simpsons or the South Park?
• Eternal summer or eternal winter: Which is the least of all evil?

Historical topics

• WW1 and WW2: Reasons, participants, number of dead and wounded, etc.
• Renaissance and Barocco.
• Roman and Greek mythology.
• Crusaders vs. Saracens.
• The European economics before and after WW2.
• Abolition of slavery in the USA and Europe.
• Japanese and European feudalism essay.
• Gender roles in the Roman Empire vs Ottoman Empire.
• British colonization and Spanish colonization.
• Lincoln and Kennedy.
• Reconstruction in America against the Industrial Age.
• Mongolian Empire and Persian Empire.
• Monaco vs Luxembourg: Countries’ history comparison.
• Worker unions history in the USA vs. Great Britain.
• Julius Caesar or Alexander the Great.

Compare and contrast essay between two jobs

• Marketer vs. Digital Marketer.
• Anthropologist vs. Philosopher vs. Psychologist
• Software Engineer vs. Software Architect.
• Film producer and a Film Director.
• Working from home and working at an office.
• Linguist and a Grammarian.
• Developer or a Coder?
• QA Specialist or a Test Engineer.
• Dean or a Principal.
• Accountant vs. Economist.
• Journalist vs. Reporter.
• Recruiter vs. HR Generalist.
• Copywriter vs. Content Marketer.

Compare and contrast essay between two cultures

• Egypt and Mesopotamia compare and contrast essay
• Modern European and American culture.
• Urbanism and ruralism.
• Vegetarianism vs. pescetarianism.
• Compare and contrast Mexico and United States essay.
• Emo culture and gothic.
• Compare and contrast Sparta and Athens essay.
• Bookworms vs. Film Buffs.
• Culture and ethnicity.
• Christianity, Islam and Judaism essay.

Interesting topics about literature

• Bible vs. Quran.
• 1984 vs. Fahrenheit 451.
• Chronicles of Narnia: Film or the book series?
• The Great Gatsby vs. The Catcher in the Rye.
• Fiction against non-fiction.
• Divine Comedy vs. Paradise Lost.
• Lord of the Rings: The book against the latest film production?
• Expository and Persuasive writing.
• Harry Potter vs. Lord of the Rings.
• Anne Frank’s Diary vs. I am Malala.
• Classic poetry against the modern one.
• Paper books against the e-books: The never-ending battle.
• Anne of Green Gables vs. Pollyanna.
• Pride and Prejudice vs. Bridget Jones’ Diary.
• Bronte sisters vs. Jane Austen.
• Drama and Comedy.
• To Kill a Mockingbird or The Help.
• Little Women vs. Little Men.
• Poetry and prose: What makes them different?

Topics related to movies and cinematography

• Wolf of Wall Street vs. Great Gatsby.
• Main differences between European and American films.
• Horror films and thrillers.
• House M.D. against Grey’s Anatomy.
• Sherlock Holmes: The old series or the new episodes?
• Polyanna: Which is better – a film or the book?
• Japanese horror films vs. American.
• Home Alone 1 vs. Home Alone 4.
• The Wizard of Oz against Gone With the Wind.
• The Sound of Music vs. Mary Poppins.
• Beverly Hills, 90210 or Melrose Place.
• Friends vs. The Office.
• Charlie Chaplin and Mr. Bean.
• The Pianist or Schindler’s List.
• Romeo and Juliet: 1968, 1996, and 2013 productions.
• Forrest Gump or The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.
• 300 or Gladiator.
• Lord of the Rings: extended edition vs. director’s cut.
• Ben-Hur (1959) vs. Ben-Hur (2016).
• Exodus: Gods and Kings (2014) and Prince of Egypt.
• Dunkirk vs. Saving Private Ryan.
• The Green Mile vs. The Shawshank Redemption.
• Les Miserables (2012) vs. The Greatest Showman.

Music and arts-related topics

• Beyonce vs. Rihanna.
• Whitney Houston against Adele.
• Britney Spears against Madonna.
• Mona Lisa vs. Girl with a Pearl Earring.
• Van Gogh against Picasso.
• Impressionism against Expressionism.
• Opera and ballet.
• Spotify or Deezer.
• Records or Live concerts.
• Jazz or classical music.
• Musical theatre vs. Play with music.
• Renaissance and Enlightenment epochs in arts.
• African vs. Asian art.
• Rock music of the XX century vs. today.
• Religious hymns and secular songs about Christmas.
• Music people listened to in their twenties in the XX century and now.
• Protagonist of the modern pop music culture and that of the 1960s.

We guarantee that you can easily find a good title among the ones we suggested. If you find it hard to compose a good compare and contrast essay even after choosing one of our topics, don’t hesitate to us a line asking for help.

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Learning How to Write Comedy Doesn’t Need to Be A Mystery

Comedy technique – compare & contrast.

How many times have you sat down and stared at a blank page or a blank computer screen trying to find something funny to write?

Discovering how to write comedy on a regular, routine basis does not need to be a mystery.

There are a vast array of techniques that you can apply on a daily basis during your writing sessions that can help you generate a ton of material.

The C ompare and Contrast (also know as complex to simple) comedy structure is a very simple, yet very powerful comedy structure that can get you quick laughs.

It’s used by all the top comedians to varying degrees and is a very effective tool.

Bill Burr uses compare and contrast in a self-deprecating way in order to belittle himself or his achievements.

He’ll compare the achievements of others then reference his own achievements to point out that in comparison to the other persons achievements, he is insignificant.

This taps into the superiority laughter trigger, (making the audience feel superior) and usually winds up with a solid laugh.

Bill uses this in his bit on “Gold Digging Whores” when he talks about the achievements of Arnold Schwarzenegger:

Bill Burr – Compare & Contrast Joke Technique [KGVID poster=”http://www.standupcomedyclinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/2013070721_38_12BillBurrEpidemicofgolddiggingwhoresYouTube_thumb.png”]http://s3.amazonaws.com/ComedyVideo/Burr-compare-1.mp4[/KGVID]

“Anybody here think they could move to Austria, learn the language, become famous for working out, then be a movie star, then marry into their royalty, then hold public office? How many lifetimes would you need? I’m on my third attempt at Rosetta Stone Spanish!”

Here he gets laughs and an applause break! My theory is that the laughs come from the superiority laughter trigger, but Burr also utilizes recognition and says, “Rosetta Stone” Spanish.

He doesn’t just say “I’m on my third attempt at Spanish.” When he says “Rosetta Stone” ask yourself if you get an instant image of the Rosetta Stone brand in your mind’s eye.

In addition to the image, Rosetta Stone is known as the best method for learning a language fast, so Burr is really cutting himself down.

It’s the recognition of Rosetta Stone that takes that joke up a notch so the applause break comes as part of the recognition.

The audience can’t just laugh they want to give Burr more accolades than just laughter.

*Want to see a full breakdown of how Bill Burr Writes Comedy ?

There are several ways to use Compare & Contrast as a comedy structure:

Compare & contrast act-out.

Amy Schumer finds this technique extremely useful in creating laughs for her act. In a video on “Certified Funny” Schumer uses this technique very effectively within the first 30 seconds of her act:

  Amy Schumer – Compare-Contrast Joke Writing Technique [KGVID poster=”http://www.standupcomedyclinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/schumer-compare-contrast-2.Movie_Snapshot.jpg” width=”640″ height=”360″]http://s3.amazonaws.com/ComedyVideo/Amy%20Schumer-Compare_Contrast-2-1.mp4[/KGVID]

“I’m not shallow at all…

like the guy I’m seeing right now, isn’t even good-looking . Setup

“I’m serious .” Focuser

No one’s ever like: Setup to the Act-out (Here it comes!)

“Who’s that?” Act-out (Compare)

They’re like: Setup to the contrast

“What Happened? Is he Ill? Should we call someone?” Contrasting Act-out

See how cleverly Schumer uses this technique to create the laugh on the way to the “A” joke of ‘not being shallow?’

Once you understand the power of Compare and Contrast as a comedic structure, you’ll be able to plug it in to your act when you need an additional laugh.

One of the advantages of this technique is that it is truly structured. The audience will quickly focus when you hit them with a compare and contrast line.

Because by it’s nature it’s one of those lines that gets just gets audiences focused. That’s one of the reasons commercials that use that side-by-side comparison are so successful. Because it’s sort of a puzzle and an audience gets to participate mentally.

Also much of compare and contrast is dealing with the recognition laughter trigger. The comparisons are familiar to an audience and if you’ve read my book or are familiar with the psychological laughter triggers of a human being, then you know how powerful recognition can be.

Pick 3 Compare & Contrast Subjects and Write 5-10 Comparisons for each. You don’t have to be as clever as Schumer or Burr. In fact I want you to do simple comparisons for your exercise. It will help you mine your brain for these contrasts and help you to train yourself to recognize them in your daily life: Here are some examples:

• Men – Women
• Conservatives – Liberals
• Gay People – Straight People
• Rich People – Broke People
• Hot Chicks – Ugly (or not so hot) Chicks
• Black People – White People
• Fat People – Skinny People
• Cats – Dogs
• Casey Kasem – Ryan Seacrest
• Mother’s Day – Father’s Day
• Tony Stewart – Martha Stewart
• Jews – Catholics

We could go on and on, but…

Let’s take the simple example of Women and Men . I was at my niece’s graduation party recently and lots of family showed up as well as my niece’s friends. The World Cup was on and it was an interesting observation to see how quickly the genders split up and found their spots at the house. The Men were inside the house watching the World Cup and the Women were outside sitting in the Gazebo.

Men and Women

The conversations the men were having and the conversations the women were having were the same only different: Men were like, “Did you see that play? That’s ridiculous! If that’s not a damn foul, I don’t know what is!” And the women were like, “Did you hear who Kim is dating?” It’s ridiculous! He’s 10 years younger. If that’s not craddle-robbing I don’t know what is!”

So, in also utilizing the “Paired-Phrase” structure, in paring the rhythms of the two act-outs, we also heighten the joke.

Another Example: Specificity

Is it me, or did you notice how when you saw Casey Kasem and Ryan Seacrest, the specificity of those items conjured up new ideas. Was there more focus? Did you see images? Sometimes getting specific can give you more motivation to write jokes.

In the example of Tony Stewart (Nascar driver) and Martha Stewart (Magazine editor, entrepreneur), I actually got that idea from Twitter. I was looking through tweets and I saw the name “@Melissa Stewart” and at first glance I thought it was @MarthaStewart.

So in looking for an exaggerated incongruity I thought it would be funny to mistake @MarthaStewart for an opposite, say, @MartyStewart.

In a compare and contrast exercise in my head I said, “If I followed @MarthaStewart I could finally get my master bedroom to coordinate. If I followed @MartyStewart I could probably do the same, but it would be in a bold sports theme.

The thinking being, of course, that we associate good decorating with Martha Stewart while Marty sounds like a beer drinking guy who spends his weekends watching sports.

In a revised draft, using specificity , I decided that in might be better to use a more commonly known Nascar driver, Tony Stewart, (yes, I had to look him up). People who know Tony Stewart. His name is used often enough in middle America.

So the joke might wind up reading:

“I was on Twitter and instead of following @MarthaStewart I accidentally followed @TonyStewart. My rug still ties in the room, but in a bold @Nascar theme!”

Are you starting to get some ideas? Now get to work and write your own! Have fun!

Jerry Corley is a professional comedian of nearly 30 years, working nearly every venue imaginable.