Laughing and Crying (GER-0072)

Spring 2026 · GER 0072 · Tufts University · 3 credits · Undergraduate

Theories and portrayals of laughter and crying. How philosophers and theorists have conceptualized humor, jokes, and wit. Investigation of how, why, at what, and at whom we laugh. Theories of weeping and crying. Literary depictions of what neuroscientists call “dimorphous expression”—the combination of laughter and tears, the proximity of comedy and tragedy. Particular attention paid to works of philosophy, literature, poetry, comedic stand-up, film, and television. No prerequisites.

Course codes: GER-0072, GER 0072, GER0072, GER-72, GER 72, GER72, ILCS-0062, ILCS 0062, ILCS0062, ILCS-62, ILCS 62, ILCS62, ILVS-0025, ILVS 0025, ILVS0025, ILVS-25, ILVS 25, ILVS25

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