James Thurber: University Days

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This activity contains 3 questions.

Thurber here describes several different incidents from his college days. Consider each as a separate anecdote, and analyze the source of its humor individually. Who—or what—is the “butt” of each story, and how, in your opinion, does this determine the success of its comic effect?

To create paragraphs in your essay response, type at the beginning of the paragraph, and at the end.

Analyze the comic persona Thurber creates here. Is he always in on the joke? How does Thurber achieve this effect?

To create paragraphs in your essay response, type at the beginning of the paragraph, and at the end.

Relate some of your own comic experiences in high school, college, or both to suggest some of the absurdity found in any educational environment. Change names as you see fit, and don’t be afraid to exaggerate a bit.

To create paragraphs in your essay response, type at the beginning of the paragraph, and at the end.

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