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Personification
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 4: I Fall Into Disgrace
Explanation and Analysis—Victorian Marriage:
The novel satirizes Victorian marriage conventions, often in very dark ways. For example, a scene in Chapter 4 makes it clear that while David's mother and Mr. Murdstone's marriage conforms to many Victorian conventions, it is also a marriage gone very wrong:
‘It’s very hard,’ said my mother, ‘that in my own house—’
‘My own house?’ repeated Mr Murdstone. ‘Clara!’
‘Our own house, I mean,’ faltered my mother, evidently frightened – ‘I hope you must know what I mean, Edward – it’s very hard that in your own house I may not have a word to say about domestic matters.
Related Themes:
Chapter 22: Some Old Scenes, and Some New People
Explanation and Analysis—Prince's Nails:
In Chapter 22, Miss Mowcher the hairdresser shows off the Prince's fingernail clippings, which she uses to attract customers. This moment satirizes a society that is obsessed with appearances and social connections:
Unlock with LitCharts A+I always carry ’em about. They’re the best introduction. If Miss Mowcher cuts the Prince’s nails, she must be all right. I give ’em away to the young ladies. They put ’em in albums, I believe. Ha! ha! ha! Upon my life, “the whole social system” (as the men call it when they make speeches in Parliament) is a system of Prince’s nails!
Related Themes:
