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Pathos
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
Key Examples in The Merchant of Venice
Satire
Explanation and Analysis—Religious Critique:
People often describe The Merchant of Venice as anti-Semitic for its harsh portrayal of Shylock. But while it does end favorably for the Christians, the play's stance on religion and prejudice is nuanced, and many critics view Merchant as satiric.
Related Themes:
Act 5, scene 1
Explanation and Analysis—Star-Crossed Lovers:
Act 5, scene 1, opens with Lorenzo musing aloud to Jessica and making some classical allusions:
Unlock with LitCharts A+The moon shines bright. In such a night as this,
When the sweet wind did gently kiss the trees
And they did make no noise, in such a night
Troilus, methinks, mounted the Trojan walls
And sighed his soul toward the Grecian tents / Where Cressid lay that night.
Related Themes:
