IBE - Spotting Satire

Front

What is satire?

Back

A literary technique that uses humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to criticize or mock individuals, society, or institutions.

Front

Who is Lady Bracknell in 'The Importance of Being Earnest'?

Back

A character that epitomizes the Victorian upper class, representing its values and social conventions.

Front

What does Oscar Wilde criticize in the Victorian upper class?

Back

He criticizes their superficiality, pretentiousness, and obsession with social status.

Front

What is the main purpose of satire in 'The Importance of Being Earnest'?

Back

To criticize and mock the social conventions and hypocrisy of the upper class society.

Front

How does Wilde use humor in his critiques?

Back

He employs witty dialogue, satire, and clever wordplay to address serious social issues.

Front

What is hypocritical piety?

Back

The act of pretending to have virtues or morals that one does not actually possess, often seen in the aristocracy.

Front

Define 'social status'.

Back

The position or rank of a person or group within society, often determined by wealth, occupation, or education.

Front

What role does irony play in Wilde's satire?

Back

Irony highlights the contradictions between appearance and reality, exposing the flaws in societal norms.

Front

What is the significance of the character Jack Worthing?

Back

He represents the conflict between social expectations and personal identity, embodying the theme of duality.

Front

Explain the term 'superficiality' in the context of Wilde's work.

Back

Superficiality refers to a focus on outward appearances and social status rather than deeper values or truths.