Syllabus Information |
Fall Semester 2021
Apr 02, 2026 |
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| The Comic Perspective - Writing Intensive - 41011 - INST 1501 - 03 |
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Associated Term: Fall Semester 2021
Levels: Undergraduate Main Campus Lecture Schedule Type Traditional Instructional Method Learning Objectives: “Against the assault of Laughter, nothing can stand.” --Mark Twain. The comic perspective has been essential to our understanding of life from Lysistrata to the Lucy Show, from Shakespeare's comedies of misunderstanding to the chaos of the Marx Brothers, from Voltaire, to Mark Twain, to modern 'mockumentaries.' Comedy provides us with a means of commenting on and correcting the vision of society. Whether it's scathing political satire, or simply the recognition (and ridicule) of human foolishness and vanity in its myriad forms, comic literature seeks the truth. It involves no less reflection on the human condition than tragedy, or works of more serious philosophical bent, but its catharsis is achieved through humor. While in some sense tragedy involves coming to terms with one’s fate, comedy embodies active resistance—refusing to accept the social/political norms. Comedy is rebellion. Satire is challenging, subversive, and slippery. An ancient, yet eminently adaptable form, it shapes itself to the times, and requires a certain level of sophistication (intelligence) from its audience. As Horace Walpole said: “Life is a comedy to those who think, and a tragedy to those who feel.” Required Materials: Technical Requirements: View Catalog Entry
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