Teaching students about Robert Klein can be a fantastic way to introduce them to a pioneering American comedian, actor, and singer. Klein’s innovative work in stand-up comedy, television, and film has solidified his place as one of the greats in comedic history. His unique blend of observational humor, social commentary, and musical performance has inspired countless comedians who have come after him. This article will guide you on how to effectively teach students about Robert Klein and instill in them an appreciation for his influential work.

Early Life and Career

1. Begin by discussing Robert Klein’s early life to provide context for his later success. Born in 1942 in The Bronx, New York City, Klein discovered his passion for performing and comedy while attending DeWitt Clinton High School.

2. Explain that before pursuing a career in comedy, Klein graduated from Alfred University with a degree in history. Later on, he attended Yale Drama School to further hone his skills as a performer.

3. Touch upon his early career breakthroughs by mentioning his time as a member of Chicago’s Second City improvisational theater group in the 1960s. This setting allowed him to develop his unique voice and comedic style.

Stand-Up Comedy

1. Delve into Klein’s stand-up comedy work by discussing his many comedy albums and HBO specials throughout the 1970s and 80s. His debut album “Child of the Fifties” (1973) showcased his satirical social commentary combined with relatable humor.

2. Highlight notable themes within Klein’s stand-up comedy, such as politics, sports, popular culture, and everyday life observations.

3. Discuss how he was one of the first successful comics to utilize HBO as a platform for comedy specials – a trend that remains popular today.

Acting Career

1. Talk about Klein’s acting career, ranging from Broadway productions, such as “They’re Playing Our Song” (1979), to his countless appearances on television shows and films like “Will & Grace,” “Two and a Half Men,” and “The Owl and the Pussycat” (1970).

Legacy and Influence

1. Engage students in a conversation about Robert Klein’s influence on the comedy world, particularly the impact of his observational humor and relatability on fellow comedians. Discuss how his accomplishments have paved the way for new comedic voices.

2. Encourage students to watch excerpts from some of Klein’s most iconic stand-up specials, interviews, or acting performances to gain an appreciation of his unique comedic style and legacy.

Conclusion

Teaching students about Robert Klein allows them not only to better understand the history of American comedy but also to appreciate the art form itself. By exploring the life, career, and influence of this comedic legend, you can inspire your students to discover more about comedy as a form of self-expression and social commentary.