Theories of humor explore why we find things funny and how humor affects us. One popular theory is the Incongruity Theory, which suggests that humor arises when there is a mismatch between expectations and reality. For example, a punchline that surprises the audience can create laughter because it defies what they anticipated. Another significant theory is the Superiority Theory, which posits that we laugh at others' misfortunes or mistakes, feeling a sense of superiority over them. This can be seen in slapstick comedy, where characters experience humorous accidents, allowing the audience to feel a sense of relief and amusement at their expense.