Humanities Arts Cultural Stu 0223 - Critical Media Studies

In this research- and writing-intensive seminar, we will explore a range of contemporary issues pertaining to irony, crisis, and political culture in the U.S. from a critical media studies perspective. Together we will conceptually map salient moments of media irony, parody, and satire in the wake of the 9/11 attacks, addressing the significance of such comedic texts not only as sources of entertainment and catharsis, but also as essential components in political discourse and cultural engagement. Intended for Division II students interested in a course that combines common readings and independent projects (focusing on the analysis of primary texts), we will also investigate the manner in which both entertainment and news media more broadly speaking cultivate--and undermine--public and private values, pleasures and anxieties. Prerequisite: It is expected that students will have taken a prior 100-level course in media studies or cultural theory.

Writing and Research Multiple Cultural Perspectives Independent Work In this course students are expected to spend 8 hours weekly on preparation and work outside of class time.