172. DSC 101/DSM 101/CBCS 501- Eighteenth Century Satire (3)

1. Give a brief note on eighteen century satire.

A:- The 18th century was a fertile period for satire, marked by a sharp wit and keen observations on the societal and political landscape. Satire during this era often employed humour, irony, and exaggeration to criticize and mock various aspects of contemporary life.

    One prominent form of satire in the 18th century was the satirical novel. Notable examples include Jonathan Swift's "Gulliver's Travels," a biting commentary on human nature and the absurdities of society. Swift used the fantastical journeys of Lemuel Gulliver to satirize political corruption, religious intolerance, and the follies of humanity. Another significant figure in the 18th-century satire was Alexander Pope, known for his satirical poems such as "The Rape of the Lock." Pope's work satirized the trivialities of aristocratic society, employing a mock-epic style to lampoon the vanity and excesses of the upper class.

The rise of periodicals and newspapers in the 18th century also provided a platform for satirical writings. Writers like Joseph Addison and Richard Steele used publications like "The Spectator" to satirize the manners and morals of their time. These periodicals often featured fictional characters who served as mouthpieces for social commentary.

Political satire was prevalent in the 18th century, with writers like Daniel Defoe and Henry Fielding using their works to critique political figures and institutions. Fielding's "The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling" satirized the legal and social systems of the time, while Defoe's "The True-Born Englishman" mocked notions of national pride and prejudice.

In addition to literature, satirical art and cartoons gained popularity during this period. Artists like William Hogarth used visual satire to expose the vices and follies of society in works such as "A Rake's Progress" and "Marriage à-la-mode."

Overall, 18th-century satire was a powerful and multifaceted form of social commentary, using humour and wit to critique and expose the flaws of the times. It played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and challenging the status quo, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of literature and art.

2. What are the features of eighteen century satire?

A:- Some features are:-

1. Irony and Wit:18th-century satire was characterized by a sophisticated use of irony and wit. Writers employed clever language and subtle humor to convey their criticisms, often relying on the reader's ability to discern underlying meanings.

2. Social Commentary:Satire in the 18th century often served as a vehicle for social commentary. Writers like Jonathan Swift and Alexander Pope used their works to critique societal norms, customs, and the behavior of individuals.

3. Mockery of Aristocracy:Many satirical works targeted the excesses and pretensions of the aristocracy. Writers mocked the vanity, superficiality, and sometimes absurd behaviors of the upper class, providing a humorous lens through which to view societal hierarchies.

4. Political Satire: The 18th century was marked by political upheavals, and satire became a tool to critique political figures and institutions. Satirical writings often explored corruption, hypocrisy, and the follies of those in power.

5. Personification and Allegory: Satirical works frequently employed personification and allegory to represent abstract concepts or groups in a more relatable and entertaining manner. Characters often symbolized broader social or political issues.

6. Fictional Narratives:Satirical novels gained popularity, using fictional stories and characters to convey deeper meanings. Writers like Henry Fielding and Tobias Smollett crafted narratives that satirized the legal system, societal norms, and human behavior.

7. Periodicals and Essays: The rise of periodicals and essay writing provided a regular platform for satirical expression. Writers such as Joseph Addison and Richard Steele contributed to publications like "The Spectator," using essays and fictional characters to satirize contemporary manners and morals.

8. Visual Satire:In addition to literature, satirical art and cartoons played a significant role. Artists like William Hogarth used visual elements to satirize the vices and follies of society, creating iconic and enduring images that conveyed social critiques.

9. Exaggeration and Caricature:Satire often relied on exaggeration and caricature to emphasize flaws and absurdities. By amplifying certain traits or behaviors, satirists could make a more pointed and memorable commentary.

10. Purposeful Critique:Satirical works of the 18th century were not merely comedic; they had a purposeful critique underlying the humor. Whether exposing hypocrisy, challenging societal norms, or ridiculing political corruption, satire aimed to provoke thought and change.

These features collectively contributed to the distinctiveness of 18th-century satire, making it a powerful and influential form of social commentary during a period of significant cultural and political change.

3. 2 satirists? (Marks-1/ First Sem, DSM )

A:- Alexander Pope and Jonathan Swift.