Abstract

This chapter focuses on how George Robey, one of the most popular Edwardian comedians, created a sketch in 1902 based on E.T. Reed’s prehistoric peeps cartoons. The sketch, which Robey performed for years, firmly established the cave man as a theatrical character and inspired many professional and amateur imitators. Reed’s cartoons remained very popular and widely imitated. They were invoked to describe conditions in the empire and scientific evidence of the ancient past, while comic cave men were used to advertise a wide variety of commercial goods. The second part of this chapter explores how Reed’s cave man character was transferred to the cinema screen in 1905 with the first film ever set in prehistory. British cave man films inspired American filmmakers who initially eschewed comedy for action, supposed scientific truth and an alignment with national myths about rugged individualism.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.