ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Klaus Theweleit on Violence and Laughter in Art

publication · 2026-04-23

In an interview with Laurent Perez for artpress (issue 465, April 2019), German author and cultural theorist Klaus Theweleit discusses his work on violence, fascism, and the role of laughter. Theweleit, known for his book "Male Fantasies," explores how violent acts can be followed by laughter, analyzing this phenomenon in art and literature. The interview delves into his theories on the psychological mechanisms behind such behavior, drawing on examples from history and contemporary culture. Theweleit's insights connect to broader discussions on power, masculinity, and the aesthetics of cruelty.

Key facts

  • Klaus Theweleit interviewed by Laurent Perez
  • Published in artpress issue 465, April 2019
  • Theweleit is author of 'Male Fantasies'
  • Interview focuses on violence and laughter
  • Discusses psychological mechanisms of violence
  • Connects to fascism and power structures
  • Uses examples from art and literature
  • Theweleit is a German cultural theorist

Entities

Artists

  • Klaus Theweleit

Institutions

  • artpress

Sources