As you have discovered by now, I have an offbeat sense of humor. This was most likely developed at an early age when I watched episodes of Monty Python's Flying Circus on the local PBS station. Once I became a teacher, I seized upon the opportunity to corrupt young minds with British humor. And, again, if you are looking for a Language Arts connection (nudge, nudge), you can always visit The Argument Clinic, and take a meaningful lesson in the art of argumentation!

Suggested Links: "The Argument Clinic" Need a little extra help on persuasive essay writing or argumentation? Perhaps you should attend The Argument Clinic. Here is the entire script from one of Monty Python's funniest sketches. See if you can identify the most important persuasive writing advice offered in the comedy routine!

BBC News: "Three Decades of Python" The BBC (British Broadcasting Company) online news division presents this 30th anniversary tribute to Monty Python. The website contains links to various stories. Be sure to check out "The U.S. Love Affair with Python."

CNN.com: "How Monty Python Changed the World" Reporter Todd Leopold begins with, "No matter where you look, even in some of the remotest parts of the planet, you can't avoid Monty Python." He continues with an interesting analysis of the British comedy troupe, based mainly on his interview with Michael Palin.

Fawlty Towers I would be remiss to have a Monty Python page without making mention of Fawlty Towers, another British television comedy series starring Python charter member John Cleese. This particular website is a tribute to the classic 1970s series.

Monty Python Biography Read how Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, and Michael Palin became Pythons.

Monty Python Word Search Puzzle I never give word search puzzles in class; however, here is one you may enjoy. Just make sure your homework is done first!

"The Pet Shop" (also known as "The Dead Parrot Sketch") Another lesson in argumentation. What would you do if a recently purchased pet turned out to be dead? Return it, of course!!! Here is the entire hilarious skit, complete with pictures!

Sony Pictures: Monty Python and The Holy Grail Sony Pictures provides a taste of Monty Python's brand of comedy. Click on the link that takes you to the enhanced site. Once there, you will be visually entertained and informed (in typical Monty Python fashion) about the DVD Collector's Edition of Monty Python and the Holy Grail. You can also try the Silly Game if you are feeling... well... silly.

(Left to right: Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, and Michael Palin)

	"It's the legendary Black Beast of Aaaarghh! Run away! Run awaaay! Run awaaaaay!"
© Copyright 2009 A.J. Kimmel