Dryden and Satire


John Dryden, also known as the 'father of criticism', is known for his satirical writings during the Restoration Era. A defender of writing, Dryden ushered in satirical devices to more importantly improve the offended rather than diminish. His gift with wit was that it be so subtle, unforeseen even, that the offended should not even be made aware that any offense has taken place. Mac Flecknoe (mac flecknoe poem), one of Dryden’s most famous works, is abundant in satirically grand language that stings with abuse, yet it is so tactful that one may have to reread several times before realizing the insult, which only adds to injury. And although Dryden was the master of satire and critique, he never departed from his intentional use of the device, which was meant to lead and result in reform.

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Similarly, satire is used, for the most part, in the same ways as those during the Restoration period; however, there are more avenues and access today that can express the satirical banter. Not only can it be found in prose, but satire is seen through visual avenues such as television shows like Saturday Night Live (watch SNL clip here,) or through comics illustrated by political cartoonists. It is a constant variable throughout news media, music, and protesters alike.

What is different from satire today is that unlike Dryden, it is not as subtle as he once suggested. The wit is so in your face, so harsh and aggressive that the offended is very much aware and it in no way often goes over their head. More importantly, I am not sure how much reform has occurred from them. It appears that ridicule is the goal chiefly strived for and reform is a secondary objective only hoped for and little seen.

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