The term 'ground-breaking' is so often used that it seems to have lost its impact. But love it or hate it there's no denying the indelible mark Monty Python's Flying Circus as left on television as it practically shaped our concept of what sketch comedy is all about.

Spanning four series, this show has little to no continuity; little to no repetition of characters; and little to no conformity with what is conventional comedy. Instead, it broke long standing traditions and til this day has yet to be outdone in the realm of pure zaniness.

One may be quick to dismiss this zaniness with low-brow humour, but often it was nothing of the sort. High culture references peppered the sketches. Furthermore, they often pointed their wit at contemporary conservative ideas and ideals, often satirically dissecting them and questioning their validity in modern society.

Note about this guide: The episode summaries listed are the official Monty Python sketch names, to make it easy finding your favourite ones.

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