Question

Four comparisons of Horatian and Juvenalian satire, using The R a p e of the Lock and "A Modest Proposal" as your examples for each type.

Answer 1

Satire is the use of humor, exaggeration and irony to express human vices or foolishness. It is often used in the political arena or as a way to criticize government policy. There are two main types of satire: Horatian and Juvenalian.

• Horatian satire is more tolerant and humorous; its main purpose is to amuse. Juvenalian tends to be more serious.

• Horatian satire tends to be more witty.

• Juvenalian satire focuses on personal anger, and attacks vices such as hypocrisy and corruption.

• The language in a Juvenalian satire, while funny, can also be bitter and pessimistic.

Two works that are well-known examples of satire are:

• "The R a p e of the Lock" by Alexander Pope. This is an example of Horatian satire. This narrative poem tells the story of a woman who gets a lock of hair stolen from her. However, the story is told as a Greek epic, contrasting the absurdity of the event with its exaggerated style. It is humorous, while slightly critical of the social behaviour of the upper classes.

• "A Modest Proposal" by Jonathan Swift is a satire that argues that the problems of Irish poverty would be solved if Irish parents sold their children as food for the rich classes. The language is a lot more poignant and reprobatory, and its hidden message is one of indignation. It is an example of a Juvenalian satire.