What Are Funny Animals?

The term “Funny Animals” is used to describe the creatures that seem to behave like humans with human mannerisms. They are also known as “hairless primates” because of the ease of drawing them compared to ordinary humans. However, the animal isn’t human – these are animals that are anywhere on the Sliding Scale of Animal Communication, from the Speech-Impaired Animal to the Talking Pet.

Animated characters with humanoid mannerisms

Comic book characters that have humanoid mannerisms are known as “Funny Animals.” These comic book characters include the Blacksad, a gang of creatures that look partly human, partly animal, and occasionally both. They often have humanoid torsos and legs but have dog-like legs and ears. They are often compared to humanoid animals, like Goofy.

Despite their animal looks, Funny Animals are anthropomorphic bipedal creatures that mimic human society. Some display humanoid mannerisms, such as speaking human languages and displaying facial expressions. Other funny animals may be completely animal, but have human sapience. The genre also includes Speech-Impaired Animals and Talking Animals. These animals are commonly used in video games for children.

Although the term “furry” only came into use in the early 1980s, “funny animal” is much older. Historian Fred Patten uses the term “comic animal” to describe older products. P. G. Wodehouse, the creator of “Buried Treasure” famously used the term “funny animal” to describe an animated Mickey Mouse. As the term spread, “Funny Animals” became more common and broader.

Bipedal characters with humanoid mannerisms

We are all aware that bipedals have differences from humans. Yet, bipedal characters with humanoid mannerisms often seem to be alien to viewers. What sets them apart? How do they distinguish themselves from other animals? How can they relate to the human condition? There are several answers to this question, but we can generally assume that bipedalism evolved independently of human development.

The Descent of Man hypothesis dates back to 1871, when fossil documentation was very sparse and knowledge of apes and monkeys was scarce. However, Hewes (1961) noted that bipedalism evolved from a desire to free hands, which enabled humans to perform tasks like food gathering, weapon handling, and self-defense. Oakley and Washburn (1956) further supported this theory.

Conclusion

“Funny Animals” are a fascinating category of creatures that exhibit humanoid mannerisms and behaviors, despite being non-human. They can range from animated characters with human-like qualities to comic book characters with anthropomorphic features. These animals often mimic human society, displaying abilities such as speaking human languages and expressing emotions. The term “Funny Animals” has a long history, predating the more recent “furry” phenomenon. Bipedal characters with humanoid mannerisms, although different from humans, offer unique perspectives on the human condition. The evolution of bipedalism suggests that the desire to free hands for various tasks played a significant role. The world of “Funny Animals” continues to captivate audiences, providing both humor and insight into the fascinating intersection of animal and human traits.

FAQS

Q: What are Funny Animals?
A: Funny Animals are creatures that exhibit human-like behaviors and mannerisms, despite being non-human. They can range from animated characters to comic book characters with anthropomorphic features.

Q: How do Funny Animals differ from ordinary animals?
A: Funny Animals stand out from ordinary animals by displaying humanoid traits such as speaking human languages, expressing emotions, and mimicking human society. They may also have human sapience or be capable of communication beyond typical animal abilities.

Q: Are Funny Animals used in video games?
A: Yes, Funny Animals are commonly featured in video games, especially those targeted towards children. They add an element of humor and entertainment to the gaming experience.

Q: What is the origin of the term “Funny Animals”?
A: The term “Funny Animals” predates the more recent term “furry.” Historian Fred Patten used the term “comic animal” to describe older products, while P. G. Wodehouse famously used “funny animal” to describe an animated Mickey Mouse. Over time, “Funny Animals” became a more common and broad term.

Q: Do bipedal characters with humanoid mannerisms have any connection to human evolution?
A: Bipedal characters with humanoid mannerisms, despite their similarities to humans, evolved independently of human development. The Descent of Man hypothesis suggests that bipedalism in humans evolved as a means to free hands for tasks like food gathering, weapon handling, and self-defense.

Q: What insights do Funny Animals offer into the human condition?
A: Funny Animals provide unique perspectives on the human condition by exploring human-like behaviors and societal dynamics through non-human characters. They can serve as a source of humor and offer commentary on various aspects of human life.