Satire Honors/Pre-IB English II
4 Pre-Questions What do we know about satire? Does satire need to be funny? What is the purpose of satire? What are some examples of satire?
Example Google: Colbert/Gun Control: colbert-report-videos/422753/january /gun-control- backlashhttp:// colbert-report-videos/422753/january /gun-control- backlash
Definition(s) A literary technique of writing or art which principally ridicules its subject, often as an intended means of provoking or preventing change. “Shaming individuals or society into improvement” Uses wit as a weapon
Satire and Humor Although usually funny or shocking, proper satire is criticism in hopes of social improvement Intended to make one laugh or gasp – but then think or reflect
Techniques and Devices of Satire Two most consistent and important: strong irony and sarcasm “In satire, irony is militant” Others: parody, burlesque, exaggeration, juxtaposition, comparison, analogy, and double entendre
Two General Types Horatian: Roman satirist, Horace Playfully criticizes some social vice through gentle, mild, and light-hearted humor. Examples: Gulliver’s Travels, The Simpsons, The Onion
Juvenalian Roman satirist Juvenal More contemptuous and abrasive than the Horatian Addresses social evil through scorn, outrage, and savage ridicule; often pessimistic Examples: 1984, ”A Modest Proposal,” Animal Farm
Post-Questions Can you think of any examples of satire? Are these examples Horatian or Juvenalian? What devices/techniques does it use? What it is criticizing? What is it hoping to achieve?