Writing Comedy and Satire

What makes something funny?

This module introduces students to the principles and practice of writing comedy across a range of forms, including sketch, stand-up, parody and satire.

Students will explore how humour is constructed, understand different theoretical and practical approaches to comedy and consider the social and political role of comedy.

Through practical workshops and analysis of contemporary and historical examples, students will develop their own comedic voice and produce original written work that demonstrates an understanding of audience, tone and purpose.

Learning and teaching

There will be two-hour meetings once a week (20 contact hours in all) which will include discussions, exercises, craft lectures and workshops. There may also be audio-visual clips and students might be directed to some relevant podcasts.

Learners will be encouraged to read texts introduced by the tutor and other members of the group. They will also be encouraged to share their creative work and obtain peer feedback on their writing.

Online provision will be made available through Learning Central with relevant links to resources, class handouts and PowerPoint presentations. The university’s Virtual Learning Environment, Learning Central, provides a useful resource for course materials, lecture slides and additional reading.

Coursework and assessment

The module will be marked using the Pass / Fail system used for the other creative writing modules in the department.

Assignment 1 will be a creative writing task (1500 words). Assignment 2 will be a reflective essay (500 words).

Reading suggestions

• Christopher J. Gilbert, When Comedy Goes Wrong (Bloomington, IN, 2025)
• Steve Martin, Born Standing Up: A Comic’s Life (2007)
• John Vorhaus, The Comic Toolbox: How to be Funny Even if You’re Not (Los Angeles, 1994)

Library and computing facilities

As a student on this course you are entitled to join and use the University’s library and computing facilities. Find out more about using these facilities.

Accessibility

Our aim is access for all. We aim to provide a confidential advice and support service for any student with a long term medical condition, disability or specific learning difficulty. We are able to offer one-to-one advice about disability, pre-enrolment visits, liaison with tutors and co-ordinating lecturers, material in alternative formats, arrangements for accessible courses, assessment arrangements, loan equipment and dyslexia screening.