Parody

Definition

Parody is a humorous or satirical imitation of a particular writer, genre, or artistic work, often exaggerating its characteristic features to create a comedic effect. It can serve as a critique of the original work or its context, highlighting absurdities and flaws while also entertaining the audience. Parody often emerges in the realm of satire, allowing for social commentary and playful engagement with established norms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Parody has been a significant aspect of English literature since the rise of satire in the 17th and 18th centuries, allowing authors to comment on societal issues and literary conventions.
2. Famous parodic works include 'Don Juan' by Lord Byron and 'The Rape of the Lock' by Alexander Pope, which both playfully mimic the styles of epic poetry and social commentary.
3. Parody can also be found in modern forms of media, including film and television, where it continues to evolve while maintaining its critical edge.
4. Jonathan Swift's works often incorporate parody as a method to satirize political and social issues of his time, showcasing the complexity and effectiveness of this literary device.
5. Parody is distinct from mere imitation; it aims to invoke laughter while simultaneously providing insightful commentary on the original work's themes or styles.

Review Questions

• How does parody function within the broader context of satire in English literature?
  • Parody operates as a subset of satire by specifically imitating and exaggerating certain aspects of a work to provoke humor and critique. In English literature, parody has been used to highlight flaws in both literary styles and societal norms. By mimicking popular forms or genres, authors are able to reflect on cultural issues while entertaining their audience, thus serving both comedic and critical purposes.
• Discuss how major authors have utilized parody in their works to address social or literary conventions.
  • Major authors such as Lord Byron and Alexander Pope have employed parody to comment on societal expectations and literary traditions. For instance, Byron's 'Don Juan' parodies epic poetry by depicting its grand themes through a humorous lens, questioning traditional notions of heroism. Similarly, Pope's 'The Rape of the Lock' uses parody to poke fun at high society's trivial concerns while exposing the superficiality of contemporary values. Through these techniques, these authors engage with their audiences critically and playfully.
• Evaluate Jonathan Swift's use of parody in his satirical works and its impact on contemporary literature.
  • Jonathan Swift masterfully employs parody in works like 'A Modest Proposal' and 'Gulliver's Travels' to critique political corruption and social injustices of his time. By imitating various genres—ranging from travel narratives to economic treatises—Swift invites readers to question prevailing attitudes while evoking both laughter and discomfort. His innovative use of parody not only elevated the genre but also set a precedent for future authors, influencing how satire is approached in contemporary literature by intertwining humor with serious social commentary.

Related terms

Satire: A literary technique that uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize or mock societal norms, institutions, or individuals.

Irony: A rhetorical device where the intended meaning is opposite to the literal meaning, often used to convey a deeper significance or critique.

Burlesque: A form of theatrical entertainment that exaggerates or caricatures its subject matter for comedic effect, often blending elements of parody and satire.