This is our catalog of courses. We will occasionally adjust the course listing to reflect the addition of new courses and the retirement of others.
In this middle school drama course, learn some of the best humorists and comedians in the history of Western culture. From Ancient Greek to Shakespeare, and Gilbert and Sullivan to Laurel and Hardy — analyze humor on the stage and screen from a literary and historical perspective.
Total classes: 6
Prerequisite: None
Suggested grade level: 6th to 8th grade
Suggested credit: 1/2 semester Drama, English, or History. For a full semester add another course.
Description
What are some of the best humorists and comedians in the history of Western culture? In this course, we’ll find out — and laugh along the way! We will touch on the comedies of ancient Greek theater, along with a sampling of Shakespeare, Gilbert and Sullivan, and others — and then move into the performance comedy of American vaudeville and movies, including the Marx Brothers, Charlie Chaplin, Laurel and Hardy, Martin and Lewis and more! We will analyze humor on stage and screen from a literary and historical perspective. This course will be a great addition for students seeking to enhance their cultural literacy!
Materials and Homework
Course Materials: PDFs and video clips provided free by the instructor. Students will be asked to watch a few streamed full-length G-rated comedies.
Homework: Some reading or watching movies, with a few quizzes are thrown in. Plan on about two hours per week.
