10 Funny Far Side Comics That Change Your Perspective on Circuses

The Far Side, crafted by the imaginative Gary Larson, is renowned for its ability to turn the commonplace into the extraordinary through a lens of absurdity. This whimsical perspective shines particularly brightly in its depictions of the circus—a realm packed with wonder and outrageousness. Larson’s humor thrives on themes ranging from animal welfare in circuses to bizarre extraterrestrial twists on traditional circus entertainment, all under the expansive big top.

Clowns also receive their fair share of attention in numerous circus-themed comic strips. Larson’s distinctive comedic style prompts readers to ponder questions like: What if clowns were in charge of Congress? How fierce is competition within the circus industry? And what secrets lurk behind the scenes? The answers promise to elicit laughter, capturing the essence of the absurd.

10 “An Alien Circus Company”

September 14, 1992

The Far Side, a professor doing equations in front of aliens in a ring at a circus.

In a whimsical twist, a professor finds himself abducted by extraterrestrials, assigned an absurd task: to solve calculus equations as part of an alien circus act. With an alien wielding a whip nearby, the stress levels soar. Although an alien circus starkly contrasts traditional human performances, certain familiar elements, such as the center ring and the ringleader, establish a relatable setting for readers. Professor Doyle’s misadventure shows that his mathematical skills may just be his lifeline.

9 “Lipizzaner Cows”

May 12, 1993

The Far Side, cows stacked on each other with a farmer milking the top one at a circus.

While circus-goers expect wild animal acts, the sight of a cow pyramid is truly astonishing.The Far Side captures this quirky act, illustrating a farmer who multitasks by milking the cow perched at the apex. This peculiar spectacle pays homage to the renowned Lipizzaner horses, albeit in a much more hilariously bovine context.

8 “Clowngress”

January 15, 1992

The Far Side, Clowns all in the same room.

Gary Larson loves puns, and his creativity shines in the concept of a Congress filled with clowns transformed into “Clowngress.”This colorful version of governance is not just entertaining but absurdly humorous. With prankster antics like “kick me” signs and outrageous ID photos, it suggests that government might be a lot more enjoyable—if only in cartoon form.

7 “Looks Like A Trap”

November 16, 1982

The Far Side, bears leashed to a ringleader while riding in a motorcycle and side car in the circus.

This comic strip features two bears reluctantly participating in a circus act, with one expressing annoyance at the other for their captivity.Their misadventure humorously reflects on the harsh reality of wild animals used as entertainment. Through dark humor, Larson subtly critiques the ethics of such treatment, prompting readers to reflect on the complexities of animal captivity long before widespread changes began in the industry.

6 “An Old Dog”

June 3, 1992

The Far Side, a dog on a tightrope in the circus.

Rex the dog astounds audiences with his impressive act—balancing on a tightrope while juggling.However, as an aging dog attempting to perform new tricks, Rex humorously brings to life the saying, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” His inner monologue reflects the tension between expectation and capability, making his precarious performance all the more entertaining.

5 “What A Red Noser!”

August 5, 1992

The Far Side, angry clowns in an office while one is talking to their boss.

In a comically cutthroat twist, The Far Side introduces the concept of “red nosers, ”clowns who curry favor with their boss.As fellow clowns look on in dismay, the comic explores the unexpected rivalry within a seemingly silly profession. This visual gag serves to remind us that competition can thrive, even in the most unexpected workplaces.

4 “These Things Just Snap Right Off”

June 8, 1983

Far Side, circus bears realize their muzzles slip right off

This humorous take on circus bears shows their struggle with cumbersome muzzles.When one bear discovers that their muzzle easily detaches, the potential for mischief arises. This comical empowerment suggests a turning of the tables, as the bears could potentially turn on their captors, echoing real-world sentiments on animal rights.

3 “Barnum And Bailey’s Respective Sons”

August 30, 1993

The Far Side, two kids running away from the circus.

Imagine growing up in the circus only to dream of a mundane office job. The Far Side portrays this ironic twist with the fictional offspring of Barnum and Bailey.As Sid and Marty run away from their circus life to embrace the rigidity of corporate America, their rebellion against the excitement of the circus world underscores the unpredictable nature of childhood aspirations.

2 “Bobo”

May 3, 1987

The Far Side, a bear riding a bike away from the circus with a whole in the tent left behind.

Highlighting the questionable treatment of circus animals, The Far Side’s Bobo, a bear in a tutu, makes a daring escape from the circus.His liberation from confinement, complete with a bike ride away from his past life, presents a lighthearted yet poignant commentary on animal welfare. Bobo’s journey embodies the spirit of freedom, following years of mistreatment.

1 “The Circus Is Back In Town!”

February 15, 1993

The Far Side, two witches, one with a newspaper, the other with a melted face

As two witches from Oz react to the circus returning, one recalls a memorable incident. A clown once drenched Ruby with water, leading to her infamous melt.Rather than shying away from the circus, the witch’s nostalgia illustrates a twisted fondness for the absurd experiences associated with carnival life. The depiction of the Dingling Brothers Circus offers a clever nod to the Ringling Brothers, blending humor with cultural references.

Source & Images