An insult can be rude, offensive, and irritating, but when the great literary master writes an insult, it's FUNNY. Here are a few collections of literary insults. Read and enjoy!
1. Shakespeare's Insults: Educating Your Wit
by Wayne F. Hill, and Cynthia J. Ottchen. Crown Publishing Group. Shakespeare was a master of insults, wit and wisdom. This collection offers 5,000 examples of Shakespearean insults, from 38 plays. The insults are arranged by play.
2. Samuel Johnson's Insults
by Samuel Johnson, and Jack Lynch (Editor). Walker & Company. From the publisher: "In 'Samuel Johnson's Insults,' Jack Lynch has compiled more than 300 of the curmudgeonly lexicographer's mightiest barbs, along with definitions only the master himself could elucidate."3. Theatre Quotation Book: A Treasury of Insights and Insults
by Russell Vandenbroucke (Editor). Amadeus Press. From the publisher: "With about 900 distinctive anecdotes, aphorisms, adages and assaults, this unique treasury will appeal equally to anyone who has sat in an auditorium enjoying a live performance and to those who have worked to create one on the stage - whether as professionals or amateurs, or if only in their dreams."4. Depraved and Insulting English
by Peter Novobatzky, and Ammon Shea. Harcourt. Your love for words may come in handy when you least expect it. This book highlights words that have fallen out of use, but which can be put to use for the appropriate occasion.5. The Book of Classic Insults
by Tom Steele. Harpercollins. This book includes some of the greatest literary insults, including classics from Oscar Wilde and Dorthy Parker. From the publisher: "Here is the ultimate collection of the funniest, nastiest, and most outrageous classic insults in one easy reference."