Graduation Term

Spring 2026

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

School of Communication

Committee Chair

Andrew Ventimiglia

Committee Member

Megan Hopper

Committee Member

Fernando Severino

Abstract

This study examines how rape myth narratives are normalized through humor in Nigerian comedy skits. While existing research has identified rape-supportive beliefs in digital entertainment, it has paid less attention to the processes through which these meanings become socially acceptable. Guided by social semiotics, the study analyzes how semiotic resources use humor to normalize rape myth narratives in Nigerian comedy skits. Using a qualitative design, twelve purposively selected Nigerian comedy skits on YouTube were analyzed. The findings reveal that refusal is constructed as temporary, persistence is portrayed as effort, men's refusal is framed as abnormal, and consent is shaped by power, status, and material conditions. These meanings are constructed through multimodal semiotic resources—particularly language, visuals, movement, costume, sound, and narrative structure—that draw on shared cultural scripts about gender and sexuality. The study concludes that rape myths persist because Nigerian comedy skits make it pleasurable, familiar, and socially acceptable through humor. It recommends greater reflexivity among content creators, more context-sensitive platform regulation, and stronger media literacy efforts to equip audiences with the skills needed to engage critically with entertainment media.

Access Type

Thesis-Open Access

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