Humanities Arts Cultural Stu 0229 - Hate, Hope & Humor: Media and Politics

Stand-up comedy, satirical news, and memes: How do these and other humor-related cultural forms allow both right-wing groups and members of the many groups the right-wing targets (immigrants, racial/ethnic/religious minorities, queer people, women, etc.) to challenge the status quo? What is the power and are the limitations of these cultural forms? In this discussion-based and writing-intensive course, students will grapple with humor's many social and political functions, and in relation to white supremacy, rape culture, and other weighty issues. Course readings will include literature by scholars in communication, media studies, sociology, psychology, political science, and ethnic studies, which we will draw from in analyzing specific performances and platforms. Ultimately students will produce a final research project on a humor-related topic of their own choosing and present it to the class. Note: this course aligns with the Art & Politics Learning Collaborative and will address its urgent question: How can art and politics intersect to challenge dominant narratives and create community? Keywords:satire

Art and Politics Students should expect to spend 6-8 hours weekly on work and preparation outside of class time