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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
Satire
Explanation and Analysis—Soviet Authoritarianism:
Facing threats of censorship or punishment, Bulgakov never directly criticizes the Soviet government in his novel. But Soviet despotism—and its satire—makes its presence felt in the novel as Woland sets off hijinks in the capital city. The Master and Margarita captures the realities of Soviet rule in both Woland and his befuddled victims.
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Satire
Explanation and Analysis—Human Follies:
There is no Devil without his enablers: Woland’s romp through Moscow says as much about those around him as his own infernal powers. His mischief across the city makes for both humorous literary fare and a searing satire of human folly.
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Chapter 28. The Last Adventures of Koroviev and Behemoth
Explanation and Analysis—Soviet-era Art:
The Master and Margarita responded to the Soviet-era approach to art through its satire of the industry. Drawing an equivalence between himself and the Master, Bulgakov sets the noble, suffering artist apart from his otherwise lazy, regimented colleagues. The novel sets forth mocking criticism of Griboyedov’s artists, who fail to demonstrate any actual commitment to their craft. Something is wrong, after all, when photos of sports clubs and the “FISHING AND VACATION SECTION” occupy the entrance of the writer’s union building. Beskudnikov and Pilot George grouse among themselves about missed travel stipend opportunities, for instance, while Foka and Amrovsy speculate over dinner. In effect, Bulgakov comically depicts writers spending more time swooning over dishes of perch and quail than committing any ideas onto paper.
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