We’re counting down the days until Christmas by looking back at Christmas episodes from a variety of TV shows. Tonight we’re talking about “Comparative Religion” from Community. What Christmas episode tropes did this episode use? Let’s take a look.
Basic Info
Directed by: Adam Davidson
Written by: Liz Cackowski
Episode Number: Season 1, Episode 12
Where to Watch It: Hulu
Holiday Party
Shirley is excited to throw a Christmas party. She keeps pushing her religion on the others. She gives them all bracelets that say ‘WWBJD?’ Pierce says, “If that stands for ‘What Would Billy Joel Do?’ I’ll tell you right now: he’d write another crappy song.” Shirley tells them all that it stands for ‘What Would Baby Jesus Do?’
She is surprised to find out that she’s the only person in the group who actually celebrates Christmas. She agrees to open it up to be a non-denominational holiday party that everyone can celebrate at, but ends up still guilting everyone with snarky comments like, “Look, Britta brought what she believes in: nothing.”
The group reminds her that if she wants them to be her second family, she needs to learn to be less judgmental.
Manger Scene
Shirley hides the Menorah that Annie brings to the party, but expects Annie to help set up the manger scene for her.
Christmas Songs
After learning her lesson, Shirley sings a version of “Holy Night” with the lyrics changed so that there aren’t any religious references.
In the end tag, Troy, Abed and Jeff cover Troy in decorations while singing “Oh, Christmas Tree” and changing the lyrics to “Oh, Christmas Troy.”
Christmas Sweaters
Everyone is evasive when Shirley brings up religion, but eventually after she puts on her own Christmas sweater, she asks if they’re all going to change into their own Christmas outfits. After a long pause, Annie finally says she could wear one of her Hanukkah sweaters.
