The end of every quarter at UChicago brings with it a unique thrill as registration for the next quarter’s classes begins. No matter your interests or schedule, you’re sure to find an interesting class in which to enroll. That’s how I came to CMST 21405; or Philosophy of Comedy: Classic Hollywood Film.
I’ve taken several film courses as a Cinema and Media Studies minor and it never gets old. I always get a twinge of joy as I realize, sitting in the Logan Center screening room, that I get to watch movies for class! Philosophy of Comedy is particularly fun because we’re watching some of my favorite films. Bringing Up Baby, The Philadelphia Story, A Night at the Opera—can you imagine getting credit for laughing?
Of course, this is the University of Chicago—there’s gotta be some academic rigor! Screenings are paired with readings from film criticism and history that students are expected to thoroughly read and annotate. We meet as a class twice each week (in a Logan center room with a gorgeous view of campus!) for a thorough discussion. Maybe best of all, there are no papers! Instead, we have discussion posts and blogs. Who doesn’t like a less burdensome finals week?
All in all, Philosophy of Comedy is a perfect example of what makes UChicago UChicago. It’s a thoughtful, fun class, full of students interested in the material. Perhaps most importantly, it’s just plain fun!