Interdisciplinary Studies: History of TV

Prerequisites: Film W3001 or 3100 Fee: $75. A survey of American TV history, with a focus on dramatic narration related to independent cinema. Structured in three acts–from the “Golden Age” of the 1950s to the dramatic complexity found in recent Cable series–it begins with prestigious writers Rod Serling and Paddy Chayefsky; studies groundbreaking mini-series like “Roots” and “Holocaust”; and explores how shows such as “Hill Street Blues” and “Twin Peaks” laid the groundwork for HBO series including “Oz,” “The Sopranos,” “The Wire,” and “Six Feet Under.” Producing 13-week dramas over the span of years, these programs have developed a sophisticated narrative form, borrowing from as well as informing cinematic storytelling. Discussion Section Required.