Satire

2 Pages 402 Words

According to George P. Landow, Professor of English and Art History at Brown University, satire is derived “…from the Latin satira, meaning ‘medley.’ A satire, either in prose or in poetic form, holds prevailing vices or follies up to ridicule: it employs humor and wit to criticize human institutions or humanity itself, in order that they might be remodeled or improved. Satire as an English literary form derives in large part from Greek and Roman literature.”
Alex Derwent Hope says satire “has a social function that places it on a level with Religion, Law, and Government. Though its tone may be light, its function is wholly serious; and as for passion, it is actuated by a fierce and strenuous moral and intellectual enthusiasm, the passion for order, justice, and beauty. . . It keeps the public conscience alert, it exposes absurdity for what it is and makes those inclined to adopt foolish or tasteless fashions aware that they are ridiculous. It shows vice its own feature and makes it odious to others. . . Satire is an aristocratic art. It is not afraid to tell unpopular truths, but its habit is to tell them with the assurance and detachment of ridicule, and ridicule is the weapon of contempt.”
“Being There” is a satire because it makes fun of America’s obsession and reliance on television. It also shows how short of an attention span we have. Chance has a short attention span. American citizens fall in love with Chance through his short, little phrases. Had he spoken longer, in more detailed ways, he may not have been liked as much.
“Wag the Dog” also plays on America’s interest with television. As long as the news looks real and official, we will believe everything we see on the tube. Also, the big, powerful United States government seeks help from a Hollywood movie producer.
Although many may find the TV as a savior, others see it as a scapegoat. The parents in South Park: Bigger, Long...