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Discussion of the theme surrounding satire and political commentary.
Main focus on the film Tickling Giants
Structured the class following a review of prior texts and an introduction to new topics.

First unit consisted of texts by four authors:
- Marie de France
- Christine de Pizan
- Marjan Satrapi
Emphasis on authorship and subversion through literary context.
- Key focus on how writers challenge social and political authority within their texts.
- Importance of how characters and narratives undermine conventional frameworks.
Shift to Bartleby the Scrivener by Herman Melville.
- Exploration of different subversive methods, focusing on 'non-doing' as an act of subversion.

Closing remarks based on exit tickets and class engagement regarding Bartleby’s motivations.
Themes identified:
- What motivates Bartleby's refusal?
- Considerations of political, psychological, or economic motivations.
- The varied interpretations of Bartleby's actions as potentially both political and psychological.
- Suggestion to view Bartleby as a literary figure rather than a character requiring psychological analysis.
Importance of how Bartleby’s non-resistance acts within a capitalist framework.

Significant observation on the subversive nature of Bartleby:
- Acknowledgement of 'non-doing' as a paradoxical act of resistance.
- Bartleby’s simple phrase of refusal illustrates deeper themes of subversion against bureaucracy and capitalism.
Connection made to contemporary movements such as 'quiet quitting' and 'living flat'.
Para to modern scenarios of resistance, especially passive forms.

Introduction of new subject matter surrounding satire.
Reference to an anonymous tweet about satire’s role in political critique:
- "Political satire is one of the oldest and most important forms of free speech that challenges power through humor."
Discussion on the purpose and implications of satire and humor as forms of critique.

Defined traditional concepts of subversion: the act of undermining authority through covert action.
Presented a new definition by literary critic Kieran Ross:
- Subversion is a gradual, insidious process opposed to abrupt revolution.
- Both terms should be viewed as different methods aimed at facilitating societal change.
Comparison of media forms: artworks versus street protests as means of instigating change.
Highlighting the capacity of literature to critique enduring power dynamics over time.

Emphasis on the necessity of humor in satire and its historical context.
- Early definitions linked satire with laughter and truth-telling.
Engaging with the nature and purpose of humor in socio-political contexts.
Importance of shared understanding in the construction of humor.

Overview of classical theories of humor:
- Superiority Theory: Developed by Hobbes.
- Laughter arises from feelings of superiority over others or oneself.
- Example: Self-deprecating humor illustrating past foolishness.
- Incongruity Theory: Elements of surprise or the juxtaposition of unexpected outcomes lead to laughter.
- Example: Riffs that subvert expectations in humorous contexts.
- Relief Theory: Humor serves as a release of pent-up emotions or social tension.
- Example: Humor reflecting societal tragedies or absurdities.
Discussion on the evolution of humor analysis from ancient philosophers to modern sociologists and psychologists.

Overview of the film's context and Bassem Youssef's satirical role during Egypt's revolution (2011-2013).
Bassem Youssef’s perspective as both a comedian and a politically engaged figure.
Utilization of dark humor amid political turmoil to reflect genuine struggles.
Exploration of the function of satire as a tool for critiquing authoritarian regimes.

Discussion on significant events that led to the development of Bassem’s comedic career.
Context of Egyptian governance under Hosni Mubarak and subsequent leaders.
Analysis of the impact of Youssef’s show on public consciousness and political discourse.
Key quote highlighting the essence of satire: "When you laugh at authority, it won’t be easy to control us."

Reflection on the limits and dangers that accompany satirical expression in repressive environments.
Historical retribution against various dissenting voices within the political landscape of Egypt.
The balance between humor’s role in critique versus the potential backlash against its practitioners.
Consider discussions surrounding the possible ramifications for Youssef's career and his contemporary approaches to satire.

Final thoughts on the interrelation of satire and subversion, particularly as illustrated by the film Tickling Giants.
Invitation for further reflection and analysis of contemporary satire within global political frameworks.
Reminder of the importance of humor and wit as critical components of political discourse.
Engaging with upcoming readings and discussions throughout the unit centered around satire's dualities and effectiveness in societal critique.

Students encouraged to connect themes from satire to prior texts.
Preparation for upcoming readings and discussions will involve critical analysis of humor's socio-political role in contemporary literature and media.