Political Satire: An Exploration Of Stylistic Elements

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Ambrose Biere, in his publication entitled The Devil’s Dictionary,
defines the term ‘politics’ as “A strife of interests masquerading as a
contest of principals; the conduct of public affairs for personal
advantage” (Bierce 95). Bierce’s bitter remarks concerning the
avaricious nature of civic institutions is an example of satire. A satirist
such as Bierce negatively describes situations or practices in society
that warrant reparation or ridicule. Throughout recent history,
satirization of governmental and political practices has been a
reoccurring subject for many authors of varying backgrounds and
beliefs. Despite differences in time period and subject matter, these
works contain similar underlying stylistic elements. Sarcasm, wit,
extended metaphor, verbal irony, and understatement are major
components in works of political satire.
Sarcasm a vital element of this genre. It serves to present the
topic of scrutinization in a farcical and debased light and often
incorporates humor. This is particularly useful in the case of
government ridicule, since authority presiding over a populace
requires respect and credibility if it is to be wholly effective. “We have
a criminal jury system which is superior to any in the world; and its
efficiency is only marred by the difficulty of finding twelve men every
day who don’t know anything and can’t read” (Twain Wit 20). Twain
uses sarcasm in this passage to illustrate the ineptitude of the jury
members. By mocking the judicial system in this manor, Twain
effectively makes an impression on his audience as to sharing his
belief that the practices are foolish and require reform. Theoretically,
the loss of respect for jury selection may prompt those in authority to
change their policies in order to regain credibility. Similarly, Jonathan
Swift uses satire to demean the motives of the government. Swift
wrote the essay “A Modest Proposal” in 1729, a t...