1. humor + criticism = inspired reform
Satire
humor + criticism = inspired reform

2. Definition Satire is a kind of writing that ridicules its
subject, usually some type of human
weakness, vice, or folly, in order to bring
about a change, such as social or political
reform

3. Satire Clearly Understood
Satire – blend of criticism and humor for the purposes of CORRECTION OR IMPROVEMENT
Sarcasm– simple abuse consisting of a series of insults
If the creators of satire don’t have a reform or a solution in mind but are simply holding up an aspect of the world as ridiculous, then they are creating irony or gallows humor rather than satire.

4. Don’t Miss Out on the Fun – Ask yourself the following questions:
1. What institutions, practices, and/or groups are being satirized?
2. What method(s) does the author employ in constructing his satire?
3. What is the tone of the satire?

5. What institutions, practices,, and/or groups are being satirized?
A group or organization
Individuals
A “sort” or type of person
A social class
A prevailing philosophy
Social manners
Modern progress
Mankind

6. What method(s) does the author employ in constructing his satire?
Parody – comic imitation
Irony – literary style characterized by irony
Mock-epic – comic imitation of the epic
Travesty – grotesque, inferior imitation
Allegory – expression by means of symbolic, fictional characters
Caricature – exaggeration by ludicrous distortion
Fable – legendary story of supernatural happenings

7. Common Features
Verbal Irony - contrast between what is said and what is really meant--this can draw attention to the absurdity of certain ideas or beliefs or can emphasize important points
Outrageous exaggerations
Deadpan understatement
Warped logic--absurd statements delivered as common sense
Improbable situations
Ridiculous names

8. What is the tone of the satire?
Gentle and humorous satire is called Horatian Satire after the writing style of the Roman poet Horace.
cheerful
tongue--in--cheek
optimistic
witty
gentle
chiding

9. What is the tone of the satire?
Heavy or biting satire called Juvenalian Satire after the Roman poet Juvenal.
cutting
bitter
angry
contemptuous
grim
sardonic
harsh
indignant

10. Satire and Point of View
Formal & Direct – Satiric voice speaks in first person. The satirist speaks directly to the reader.
Informal & Indirect - Characters themselves reveal their folly & ridiculousness through their own actions, words and thoughts. Often seen in stories, poems, plays or novels.

11. Satire or Not? http://www.theonion.com
THE COLBERT REPORT (STEPHEN COLBERT):
THE DAILY SHOW (JON STUART):