Satire
Hard Times
by Charles Dickens

Hard Times: Satire 1 key example

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
Book 1, Chapter 2
Explanation and Analysis—Facts vs. Definitions:

Hard Times satirizes the worldview of utilitarianism through one of Mr. Gradgrind’s lessons. 

“ [...] Give me your definition of a horse.”

(Sissy Jupe thrown into the greatest alarm by this demand).

“Girl number twenty unable to define a horse!” said Mr. Gradgrind, for the general behoof of all the little pitchers. “Girl number twenty possessed of no facts, in reference to one of the commonest of animals!”