The class will discuss how different ethnicities and cultures are presented in terms of both appearance and personality in comic books and comic strips. Humorous comics and superhero comics will be analyzed for their storylines and their depiction of issues common in different cultural communities. The class hopes to explore the change in presentation of ethnicity and culture in this form of media.

Although Calvin & Hobbes is accessible and fun to read, woven into many of the panels are complex philosophical themes. From discussions of morality and Santa Claus to Buddhist philosophy in tuna fish sandwiches, this popular comic strip offers an engaging and funny way to approach and explore the "big ideas" in life. Both co-teachers are life-long enthusiasts and experts who would love to share their reflections and favorite comic strips.