The BEST episodes of The History of Comedy season 1

Every episode of The History of Comedy season 1, ranked from best to worst by thousands of votes from fans of the show. The best episodes of The History of Comedy season 1!

How comedy has affected the social and political landscape throughout history.

Last Updated: 8/18/2024Network: CNNStatus: Ended

8.38

34 votes

#1 - One Nation, Under Comedy / Cultural Divide

Season 1 - Episode 4 - Aired 7/16/2017

The evolution of racial humor and how comedy about shared experiences can cross cultural barriers to unite people in laughter are explored.

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8.27

11 votes

#2 - The Spark of Madness

Season 1 - Episode 6 - Aired 7/30/2017

The 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.

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8.09

78 votes

#3 - F***ing Funny

Season 1 - Episode 1 - Aired 2/9/2017

The 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.

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7.98

57 votes

#4 - The Comedy of Real Life

Season 1 - Episode 3 - Aired 2/23/2017

A look at how comedians find humor in the simple, daily experiences most people share.

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7.82

11 votes

#5 - On Parody and Satire

Season 1 - Episode 7 - Aired 8/6/2017

Demonstrating how effective and funny it can be when you look at something serious and just twist it ever so slightly.

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7.75

57 votes

#6 - The Funnier Sex

Season 1 - Episode 2 - Aired 2/16/2017

A 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.

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7.64

11 votes

#7 - Ripped from the Headlines

Season 1 - Episode 5 - Aired 7/23/2017

The origins of topical humor are traced, from the invention of the monologue to the "fake news" shows of today.

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7.00

10 votes

#8 - Politics Aside

Season 1 - Episode 8 - Aired 8/13/2017

A look at the many different ways that comedy has lampooned and influenced politics over the years.

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