Satire is a literary work that ridicules its subject through the use of techniques such as exaggeration, reversal, incongruity, and/or parody in order to make a comment or criticism about it.
Exaggeration
To enlarge, increase, or represent something beyond normal bounds so that it becomes ridiculous and its faults can be seen.
Incongruity
To present things that are out of place or are absurd in relation to its surroundings.
Reversal
To present the opposite of the normal order (e.g., the order of events, hierarchical order).
Parody
To imitate the techniques and/or style of some person, place, or thing.
As you listen/read/ watch a piece of satire, complete the following form, documenting how they’ve used Satire.
MY EXAMPLE--Santaland Diaries
Exaggeration
In Santaland Diaries, there are numerous examples of exaggeration. The most prominent is in the discussion of how long and arduous the process is to become an elf. David also refers to his drug use by saying his urine had "stems and roaches", but they still let him become an elf.
In Santaland Diaries, there are numerous examples of exaggeration. The most prominent is in the discussion of how long and arduous the process is to become an elf. David also refers to his drug use by saying his urine had "stems and roaches", but they still let him become an elf.
Incongruity
Sedaris speaks of the grown adults who have to wear a costume to earn a living. He says he feels sorry for the people who have to wear a giant taco suit, or a camcorder on the corner of the street. It just doesn't fit.
Reversal
A number of the people who visit Santaland are adults without children. One such man is so excited to see Santa that he comes back several times. He ends his visit by peeing on Santa's lap.
Parody
Most of Sedaris' anecdotes are parodies of his experience as a Macy's elf. However, he specifically parodies areas of the store like the "Vomit Corner"