Satire is a literary genre that uses humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to criticize and expose flaws in human nature and behavior. The purpose of satire is usually to make some kind of moral or political change in society through the use of critical humor. Satire can be used to draw attention to both particular and wider issues in society, and it can be part of any work of culture, art, or entertainment.
Satire can be direct or indirect. With direct satire, the narrator speaks directly to the reader, while with indirect satire, the authors intent is realized within the narrative and its story. Satire can be used in various mediums such as film, literature, and even music. Although satire is usually meant to be humorous, its greater purpose is often constructive social criticism, using wit to draw attention to both particular and wider issues in society.
Satire has a long history and has been used to criticize politicians, political decisions, and other prominent realms of power. Satire confronts public discourse and the collective imaginary, playing as a public opinion counterweight to power, by challenging leaders and authorities. Satire can be unpleasant to criticize people openly and directly, but it can be a fantastic way to criticize politicians and political decisions.
