Previous
Mood
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
Satire
Explanation and Analysis—The Catholic Church:
Joyce’s depiction of the Catholic Church in the story is an example of satire. After many pages of building up to the Catholic retreat that is meant to change Kernan’s life (by keeping him from drinking), the retreat itself is extremely underwhelming. Rather than helping the attendees open up spiritually and emotionally, the priest (Father Purdon) gives a sermon using transactional language that implies the Church exists to merely hold people to account for their bad behavior (as a “spiritual accountant”) rather than to motivate them through an inspiring and evocative speech to become better people.
Related Themes:
