Studies in 20th-Century Literature (368-0-22)
Topic
From Primal Jokes to Modern Memes: The Theory & Po
Instructors
Clay Ross Cogswell
Meeting Info
Parkes Hall 213: Tues, Thurs 2:00PM - 3:20PM
Overview of class
This seminar introduces students to several canonical theories of wit, starting with founding accounts of laughter as based on superiority, often called "punching down," through recent work on embodiment and new media. Ranging over a wide variety of texts—from Thomas Hobbes to Calvin & Hobbes, scathing satire of British imperialism to memes of Bernie in mittens, comic poems to comic strips—we will develop tools to analyze the aesthetic and political import of jokes and laughter. Drawing a long arc from the seventeenth century through the present day will allow us to appreciate, in rich historical context, the forms and social effects (not to mention the wit itself) of the texts we examine. Readings include Hobbes's Leviathan, Jonathan Swift's A Modest Proposal, poems by Dorothy Parker, performances by Reggie Watts, and Alison Bechdel's Dykes to Watch Out For. We will also analyze excerpts and episodes of contemporary comic media, including Atlanta and What We Do in the Shadows.
Teaching Method
Seminar discussion.
Evaluation Method
Essays and class participation.
Class Materials (Required)
Braithwaite, My Sister, the Serial Killer.
Texts will be available at: Norris.
Class Attributes
Literature & Fine Arts Distro Area