COMM4455 · Communication

Comedy Studies Seminar

Morrissey College of Arts & Sciences

Satisfies one of two writing intensive courses required within the Communication major. Restricted to Juniors and Seniors. This course surveys major theories of comedy and applies them to the world of contemporary media. Students will study major thinkers in the field of comedy, talk to creators of comedy, and analyze a wide range of media ranging from silent cinema to contemporary sitcoms to the latest in social media. Students will write a research paper that combines theories of comedy with the economics of media in order to understand how comedy creates both laughs and profits while also playing a key role in contemporary politics and society.