Originally published in 1952 this book assembles what the author called 'the basic jokes' of theatrical burlesque. It traces their pedigrees through the works of the Shakespeare to Leacock. The book distinguishes between burlesque as a literary form and other forms of comedy, such as satire and parody. The book is amply illustrated to showcase the traditional jokes of burlesque: 'Heroic Declamation' for example is represented by a colourful Cruikshank portrait of Mrs. Liston in the part of Queen Dollalolla.