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Paradox
Definition of Satire
Satire is the use of humor, irony, sarcasm, or ridicule to criticize something or someone. Public figures, such as politicians, are often the subject of satire, but satirists can take... read full definition
Satire is the use of humor, irony, sarcasm, or ridicule to criticize something or someone. Public figures, such as politicians, are often the subject of... read full definition
Satire is the use of humor, irony, sarcasm, or ridicule to criticize something or someone. Public figures, such as politicians... read full definition
Chapter 19
Explanation and Analysis—Great Democracy:
In the following example of satire and verbal irony from Chapter 19, the narrator refers to America as the "great Democracy," likely mirroring the words Francie's teacher would use. The narrator implies that this "great Democracy" is in fact unequal, pairing the epithet with Francie's emergent class consciousness:
Francie, huddled with other children of her kind, learned more that first day than she realized. She learned of the class system of a great Democracy. She was puzzled and hurt by teacher's attitude. Obviously the teacher hated her and others like her for no other reason than that they were what they were.
Related Themes:
Chapter 25
Explanation and Analysis—Socialism:
In the following example of satire from Chapter 25, Francie and her father discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different political systems:
Unlock with LitCharts A+"It's free in this way: If you have the money you're allowed to ride in them no matter who you are. In the old countries, certain people aren't free to ride in them, even if they have the money."
"Wouldn't it be more of a free country," persisted Francie, "if we could ride in them free?"
"No."
"Why?"
"Because that would be Socialism," concluded Johnny triumphantly, "and we don't want that over here."
"Why?"
"Because we got Democracy and that's the best thing there is," clinched Johnny.
Related Themes:
