American Jewish Comedy:
An Introduction
Curatorial and research services provided
by the Jewish Museum

American Jewish Comedy traces the tradition of Jewish humor from the Old World to American shores, examining evolving themes through five superlative examples of the genre, filmed over a span of 60 years. The course places these films in the context of their times and invites viewers to consider why and how they continue to make us laugh.

Introduction

Session 1: Assault on Authority
Animal Crackers

Session 2: Setting the Standard
Sid Caesar in Your Show of Shows

Session 3: Stretching the Limits
The Producers

Session 4: From New York to L.A., via Wisconsin
Annie Hall

Session 5: Just a Little Off-Center
Saturday Night Live

Session 6: Wrap-Up

Course Leader Notes

Complete Course Curriculum

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