Caricature

Definition

A caricature is an exaggerated portrayal of a person or thing that highlights particular traits or features, often for comic effect. This technique is used to convey social criticism and comment on the absurdities of society, making it an effective tool in literature. Through caricature, authors can emphasize flaws, vices, or eccentricities, bringing characters to life in a way that engages and entertains readers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dickens frequently employed caricature to create memorable characters, often focusing on their physical features and peculiar behaviors.
2. In his works, caricature serves not only to entertain but also to critique social issues like class disparity and moral hypocrisy.
3. The use of caricature can make complex characters more accessible to readers by distilling their essence into recognizable traits.
4. Dickens's caricatures often embody specific societal types, such as the greedy businessman or the disillusioned bureaucrat, reflecting the era's concerns.
5. Caricature allows Dickens to blend humor with serious commentary, making his critiques both engaging and thought-provoking.

Review Questions

• How does Dickens utilize caricature to enhance character development in his stories?
  • Dickens uses caricature to create vivid and memorable characters by emphasizing their most distinctive traits. This exaggeration helps readers quickly grasp the essence of a character, making them relatable and engaging. Through these exaggerated portrayals, Dickens not only entertains but also critiques societal norms and issues, illustrating his deep understanding of human nature.
• Discuss the role of caricature in Dickens's social commentary and how it reflects the attitudes of his time.
  • Caricature plays a crucial role in Dickens's social commentary by highlighting the flaws and absurdities within society. By exaggerating characteristics of individuals representing various social classes, he critiques the moral failings and injustices prevalent during his time. This technique allows readers to confront uncomfortable truths about society while remaining entertained, making the critique both accessible and impactful.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of caricature as a literary device in communicating complex themes within Dickens's works.
  • Caricature is highly effective in Dickens's literature as it simplifies complex themes while still provoking thought. By using exaggerated representations of characters, Dickens can address intricate ideas such as social injustice and moral corruption without overwhelming readers. The humor inherent in caricature draws readers in, making them more receptive to the deeper messages embedded in the narrative. This balance between entertainment and serious critique showcases Dickens's skillful use of literary devices to engage with pressing societal issues.

Related terms

satire:

A genre of literature that uses humor, irony, and exaggeration to criticize or mock individuals, institutions, or societal norms.

exaggeration: The act of representing something as larger, greater, better, or worse than it really is, often used in caricatures to highlight certain characteristics.

stereotype: A widely held but oversimplified idea or image of a particular type of person or thing, which can sometimes serve as a basis for caricature.