Robert Benchley
Robert Benchley: A Master of Wit and Humor
Full Name and Common Aliases
Robert Charles Benchley, commonly known as Robert Benchley, was a celebrated American humorist whose sharp wit and comedic genius left an indelible mark on the world of literature and entertainment.
Birth and Death Dates
Robert Benchley was born on September 15, 1889, and passed away on November 21, 1945.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Robert Benchley was an American national. He was a multifaceted professional, known primarily as a humorist, writer, and actor. His career spanned various roles, including that of a newspaper columnist, film actor, and radio personality.
Early Life and Background
Robert Benchley was born in Worcester, Massachusetts, into a family that valued education and intellectual pursuits. He attended Harvard University, where he honed his skills in writing and humor. At Harvard, Benchley was an active member of the Harvard Lampoon, a humor magazine that served as a breeding ground for his comedic talents. His time at Harvard was instrumental in shaping his future career, as it provided him with a platform to experiment with his unique style of humor.
Major Accomplishments
Benchley's career took off when he joined the staff of the New York Tribune as a reporter. However, it was his work as a columnist for Vanity Fair and The New Yorker that truly established him as a leading humorist of his time. His column, "The Wayward Press," was particularly popular, showcasing his ability to blend satire with insightful commentary on contemporary issues.
In addition to his writing, Benchley made significant contributions to the world of film. He appeared in over 40 films, often playing roles that capitalized on his comedic timing and affable persona. His short film, "How to Sleep," won an Academy Award for Best Short Subject (Comedy) in 1935, further cementing his status as a versatile entertainer.
Notable Works or Actions
Robert Benchley's body of work is vast and varied, encompassing essays, columns, and films. Some of his most notable written works include "Of All Things," "Benchley Beside Himself," and "My Ten Years in a Quandary, and How They Grew." These collections of essays and articles are celebrated for their wit, humor, and keen observations of everyday life.
In the realm of film, Benchley's performances in movies such as "The Major and the Minor" and "Foreign Correspondent" are remembered for their charm and comedic brilliance. His ability to transition seamlessly between writing and acting showcased his diverse talents and contributed to his enduring popularity.
Impact and Legacy
Robert Benchley's impact on American humor and entertainment is profound. He was a founding member of the Algonquin Round Table, a group of New York City writers, critics, and actors who met daily for lunch at the Algonquin Hotel. This group, known for its sharp wit and intellectual banter, played a significant role in shaping American literary and cultural discourse in the early 20th century.
Benchley's legacy is evident in the work of subsequent generations of humorists and comedians who have drawn inspiration from his style. His influence can be seen in the writings of contemporary humorists such as Woody Allen and Dave Barry, who have cited Benchley as a key influence on their work.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Robert Benchley is widely quoted and remembered for his ability to find humor in the mundane and his talent for delivering incisive social commentary with a light touch. His quotes often reflect a deep understanding of human nature, wrapped in a layer of humor that makes them both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Benchley's work continues to resonate with audiences today because of its timeless quality. His observations on life, society, and human behavior remain relevant, offering insights that are as applicable now as they were during his lifetime. His legacy as a master of wit and humor ensures that his words will continue to be quoted and cherished for generations to come.
Quotes by Robert Benchley
Robert Benchley's insights on:
Anyone can do any amount of work, provided it isn't the work he's supposed to be doing at that moment.
It took me fifteen years to discover I had no talent for writing, but I couldn't give it up because by then I was too famous.
Drinking makes such fools of people, and people are such fools to begin with, that it's compounding a felony.
The most common of all antagonisms arises from a man’s taking a seat beside you on the train, a seat to which he is completely entitled.
Even nowadays a man can’t step up and kill a woman without feeling just a bit unchivalrous.
Next to a shot of some good, habit-forming narcotic, there is nothing like travelling alone as a ’builder-upper.
I once heard a woman laugh at that most tragic moment in all drama, the off-stage shot in “The Wild Duck,” and I afterward had her killed, so there will be no more of that out of her.