Satire is defined in the dictionary as, “a literary composition, in verse or prose, in which humanfolly and vice are held up to scorn, derision, or ridicule.” Satire is commonly seen today in media and books. Satirical literature is unique because authors have to possess a certain humor and irony in their writing to make sure it comes across to the readers.
Sedgwick exemplifies satire in “Cacoethes Scribendi” with tradition and gender roles. The irony is that she portrays Alice to hate writing, although Sedgwick is a female writer. Sedgwick also makes Alice to be a stereotypical female during the time period who just wants to better herself by becoming the perfect domestic woman, instead of being educated. This reminded me of the traditional story, Pride and Prejudice, where the male figures are often idealized, like Ralph in Sedgwick’s story. This is also using irony, because Ralph is an average man, but is superior because of gender roles. Sedgwick also satirizes the topic of marriage in culture because at the end of the story, marriage is seen as a simple thing to do when you are attracted to someone. In reality, we all know this isn’t the case, but in satire this is a topic that can be easily poked at.
Seinfeld, a popular comedy in the nineties is a renowned source of satire. Seinfeld pokes fun at relationships and uses hyperbole and irony at different things in culture. For example, in the episode “The Soup Nazi”, Seinfeld pokes fun at the chic hole in the wall restaurant where you have to know exactly how to order or your frowned upon. The popular show often makes fun of talking points in society, and uses hyperbole to make fun of the point. Another example, is when the character Elaine, gets tested positive for a drug test after eating a lemon poppy-seed muffin. The audience knows this is ludicrous, but it is seen as satire and humor because of the irony.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kNwbjcuQUv8
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