Humanities Arts Cultural Stu 0239 - Comedy & Cultural Politics

Shortly after September 11th many journalists suggested that the attacks marked the death of irony. Nevertheless, irony, parody and political satire were used to challenge the Bush Administration's response to - and the mainstream media's framing of - the attacks. How do these modes of communication allow people to speak the unspoken, to challenge the political, social and cultural status quo, and to consolidate community? What are the limitations of these rhetorical strategies? Using satire as a means of exploring cultural theory and politics, we will grapple with its social functions, the extent to which it has been an effective means of addressing wars, presidents, and social issues. In addition to gaining familiarity with relevant cultural and social theory, students will read and write analyses of specific satirical performances, comedic television programs, and online publications.

Culture, Humanities, and Languages Independent Work Writing and Research In this course, students will spend approximately 15 hours weekly on work and preparation outside of class time. Although there are no formal prerequisites for the course, the course is designed for students who have taken at least one college-level media studies course.