Have you ever wondered why The Simpsons, South Park, Family Guy and other seemingly secular shows tend to have so much to say about religion?
Or how does the religiosity of Ned Flanders and the feminist sensibilities of Lisa Simpson work together to offer critical commentary on religion and gender in the U.S.?
Are these animated characters, among others, really sites of struggle among political, economic, social and religious forces?
Register today for Religion and Rhetoric in American offered online during Winter Session (Jan 2- Jan 17) and learn how analyzing such questions can lead to a better understanding of how religion functions rhetorically in America using animated television shows as a case-study.
This web/online course investigates the religious dimensions of the longest-running sitcom in America, The Simpsons. Students will learn how signs and symbols influence us through a process called rhetoric.
As they become ‘Simpsonologists’, students will watch and examine various episodes paying special attention to the ways in which The Simpsons and other animated shows functions as rhetorical religious satire and formulates arguments in public and political discourse, especially at the intersection of race, citizenship and national identity.
Fulfills: (ICC) – Humanities, Humanities, Liberal Arts, Theme: Identities
Register on Homerconnect under Winter 2025: Religion and Rhetoric in America – CRN: 30062- RLST 12200
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