Social criticism

Definition

Social criticism is the act of exposing and challenging societal norms, injustices, and inequities through various forms of art and literature. It often highlights the flaws in social structures and human behavior, aiming to provoke thought and inspire change. This critique can be seen in the evolution of comedic forms as they shifted from Restoration Comedy's focus on wit and class dynamics to the more moralistic and emotionally driven Sentimental Comedy, as well as in picaresque novels that reflect on social issues through the experiences of their protagonists.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Social criticism in Restoration Comedy often employed satire to expose the superficiality and moral decay of the upper classes, using humor as a tool for critique.
2. As Restoration Comedy evolved into Sentimental Comedy, the focus shifted from mere entertainment to a more serious exploration of moral values and human emotions.
3. In works like Henry Fielding's 'Joseph Andrews', social criticism is woven into the narrative as the picaresque protagonist navigates various social classes, exposing hypocrisy and injustice.
4. Fielding's use of humor in 'Joseph Andrews' serves not only to entertain but also to challenge societal norms, particularly regarding gender roles and class distinctions.
5. Both genres illustrate how literature can reflect societal issues, using character experiences to comment on broader cultural values and push for social reform.

Review Questions

• How does social criticism manifest in the transition from Restoration Comedy to Sentimental Comedy?
  • In moving from Restoration Comedy to Sentimental Comedy, social criticism becomes more focused on moral integrity and emotional depth. Restoration Comedy often employed sharp satire to mock the upper class's vices, while Sentimental Comedy aimed to evoke empathy and convey moral lessons. This shift indicates a changing perspective on how literature can address societal flaws, emphasizing a need for emotional connection alongside critical observation.
• What role does social criticism play in Henry Fielding's 'Joseph Andrews', especially in terms of class dynamics?
  • 'Joseph Andrews' serves as a prime example of social criticism within the picaresque genre, where Fielding critiques class dynamics through the adventures of his protagonist. As Joseph navigates different social strata, he encounters various characters that embody hypocrisy and moral failing. This journey not only entertains but also sheds light on societal inequalities, prompting readers to reflect on the discrepancies between appearance and reality within their own context.
• Evaluate how the comedic techniques used in both Restoration Comedy and Sentimental Comedy contribute to their social criticisms.
  • The comedic techniques employed in both Restoration Comedy and Sentimental Comedy are integral to their respective critiques of society. Restoration Comedy uses satire and wit to undermine pretentiousness among the upper classes, while Sentimental Comedy utilizes pathos and moral dilemmas to inspire reflection on human virtue. This blend of humor with serious themes allows both genres to effectively challenge societal norms and provoke thought about moral responsibilities in a rapidly changing world.

Related terms

Restoration Comedy:

A theatrical genre characterized by its witty dialogue, sexual innuendo, and portrayal of the upper class, often critiquing societal norms of the time.

Sentimental Comedy: A form of comedy that emerged as a response to Restoration Comedy, focusing on moral lessons, emotional experiences, and the value of virtue over vice.

Picaresque Novel: A genre of prose fiction that follows a roguish protagonist navigating through a corrupt society, often revealing social injustices and moral dilemmas.