1. Satire: An Introduction
Satire pokes fun at or ridicules society or topic of interest in order to prove a point.

2. Where would I find satire?
In cartoons like Sponge Bob or The Simpsons
On the editorial pages of newspapers and magazines
Late night tv like Saturday Night Live or The Jon Stewart Show
In music like songs by Weird Al and Cletus T. Judd

3. Characteristics of Satire
Satire is easily dated because it is often inspired by current events. It may be hard to understand if one is not familiar with the event.
It uses edgy humor in an attempt to reform or change human behavior or values.
It compares reality to what is ideal—why is this problematic?
Any one or any thing could be fair game for the writer of satire.

4. Devices of Satire
Parody—a take-off or imitation of a work of art or literature
Understatement—saying less than what is really meant “Oh, those chemo treatments were a piece of cake”

5. Devices of Satire-Irony
Irony is the tension between what the audience expects to happen and what actually happens.
A. Dramatic irony—the audience knows something a character does not
B. Verbal irony—a character means the opposite of what he or she says
C. Situational irony—the outcome of the situation is opposite of what is expected

6. Devices of Satire
Satire often contains stereotypes, which is a generalization assigned to an entire group.
What stereotypes of Kentuckians are represented in this photo?

7. More Devices of Satire
Some satire contains hyperbole—extreme exaggeration.
Negative comments or insults may be made regarding issues related to society (politics, health care, racial issues, etc)

8. Even More Satirical Devices
Reversal, which is
presenting the opposite
of normal order.

9. Last Satirical Device
Incongruity: Presenting things that are absurd in relation to the surroundings.