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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 1
Explanation and Analysis—Medical Degree:
In Chapter 1 of Tar Baby, Valerian and Sydney bicker over Valerian's sore feet, which Sydney believes could be cured if Valerian wore different shoes. Sydney is more than likely correct in his assumption, but Valerian refuses to take his perspective into consideration. Instead, Valerian responds in a satirical manner:
“You could be a little less hardheaded about those shows. Sandals or a nice pair of huaraches all day would clear up every one of them bunions.”
“They’re not bunions. They’re corns.”
Valerian plopped the cubes into his cup.
“Corns too.”
“When you get your medical degree call me. Ondine bake these?”
In the passage above, Valerian knows that Sydney does not have the privilege to get a medical degree. As a Black servant living on an island that White people colonized and currently control, Sydney is at a racial and societal disadvantage. Even if he wanted a medical degree, the chance of his obtaining one is slim. Valerian's statement "When you get your medical degree call me" is satirical in nature. The comment establishes the unequal power dynamic between the two characters, and introduces readers to the broader and ever-present nature of colonialism and racial subjugation in Tar Baby. Sydney offers to help Valerian, but Valerian automatically assumes that Sydney's advice is not legitimate because of Sydney’s racialized and subordinated position.
Related Themes:
