The History of Comedy

Season 1

2017 · 8 episodes · 6h 0m in all · 10.0/10

Episodes

1. 

   1. F***ing Funny

   9 Feb 2017 · 45 min · 10.0/10

   The evolution of inappropriate humor throughout history is traced, showcasing the work from groundbreaking comedians who risked their careers, prison sentences and even their lives as they fought against censorship.

2. 

   2. The Funnier Sex

   16 Feb 2017 · 45 min · 10.0/10

   A look at the greatest female comedians and how they were able to succeed in every genre where humor is found despite rampant sexism and prejudice.

3. 

   3. The Comedy of Real Life

   23 Feb 2017 · 45 min

   A look at how comedians find humor in the simple, daily experiences most people share.

4. 

   4. One Nation, Under Comedy

   16 Jul 2017 · 45 min

   The evolution of racial humor and how comedy about shared experiences can cross cultural barriers to unite people in laughter are explored.

5. 

   5. Ripped from the Headlines

   23 Jul 2017 · 45 min

   The origins of topical humor are traced, from the invention of the monologue to the "fake news" shows of today.

6. 

   6. The Spark of Madness

   30 Jul 2017 · 45 min

   The mind of the comedian is explored, as well as the difficult road that many seem destined to take where mental illness and substance abuse are remarkably common.

7. 

   7. On Parody and Satire

   6 Aug 2017 · 45 min

   Demonstrating how effective and funny it can be when you look at something serious and just twist it ever so slightly.

8. 8

   8. Politics Aside

   13 Aug 2017 · 45 min

   A look at the many different ways that comedy has lampooned and influenced politics over the years.