After watching Hugh Laurie's sketch on BBC, my sociology class was told to analyze how American culture looked to the British audience. The sketch started out with Hugh Laurie dressed in plaid, hair kinda messy with something tied around his forehead. Even before he started singing the audience giggled just from their reaction to his clothing, which probably seemed somewhat silly to them due to the culture difference.
He sat at the piano, very serious looking, and started to play. By singing the same word (America) repeatedly throughout the song, it almost made it seem like Americans were "simple" when it comes to everything including music. He switched half way through the song and began to sing "The States", obviously another name for America, showing that "simple" side to the thought put into the song. While singing, Laurie made funny expressions that certain American rock groups would make. he also uses different techniques with his voice like a raspy slide/moan to emphasize the serious tone of the song. At the end of the song, he is punched, ending the sketch.
The audience reacted most to the lyrics and facial expressions made. The audience laughed at most of the little quirky things that Laurie did to poke fun at American music and culture. I, personally, did not find the sketch offensive or rude because it's just a comedy show. Shows like that make fun of most cultures. That's why they're funny! They make fun of everyone and everything.
Natalie: I agree with your last paragraph -- It should be taken as a joke. However, I've had students who take offense at this. I should mention that I've also had international students who confide that there is some truth to what Hugh Laurie says in this sketch. Richard Bobys
ReplyDelete