Maggie Hennefeld se zabývá studiem literatury a kulturních studií, přičemž její práce se často zaměřuje na filmovou komedii a její historické a kulturní kontexty. Zkoumá, jak se humor a jeho formy vyvíjely v průběhu času a jak odrážejí společenské změny a kulturní postoje. Její přístup je analytický a klade si za cíl pochopit hlubší významy a společenské dopady komediálních děl.
The book delves into the overlooked narratives surrounding "hysterical laughter," particularly in the context of women's experiences. It examines how society has both theorized and demonized this form of amusement, highlighting the ways it has been suppressed and exploited throughout history. Through this exploration, the author sheds light on the complex relationship between gender and laughter, uncovering the cultural implications and historical significance of women's laughter.
In Specters of Slapstick and Silent Film Comediennes, Maggie Hennefeld examines little-known silent films that, she argues, provide disturbing but suggestive images for comprehending gendered social upheavals in the early twentieth century. Hennefeld shows how slapstick comediennes were crucial to the emergence of film language and experimentation.