The History of Comedy

Season 1

Utilizing archival footage punctuated by contemporary interviews with comedy legends and scholars, this is the history of not only what makes us laugh, but how comedy has affected the social and political landscape throughout history.

8 Episodes

F***ing Funny
E1
F***ing FunnyThe 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.
The Funnier Sex
E2
The Funnier SexA 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.
The Comedy of Real Life
E3
The Comedy of Real LifeA look at how comedians find humor in the simple, daily experiences most people share.
One Nation, Under Comedy
E4
One Nation, Under ComedyThe evolution of racial humor and how comedy about shared experiences can cross cultural barriers to unite people in laughter are explored.
Ripped from the Headlines
E5
Ripped from the HeadlinesThe origins of topical humor are traced, from the invention of the monologue to the "fake news" shows of today.
The Spark of Madness
E6
The Spark of MadnessThe 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.
On Parody and Satire
E7
On Parody and SatireDemonstrating how effective and funny it can be when you look at something serious and just twist it ever so slightly.
Politics Aside
E8
Politics AsideA look at the many different ways that comedy has lampooned and influenced politics over the years.