how do you start a satire essay

How to Write a Satire Essay: Examples, Outline and Topics

how do you start a satire essay

Ever wondered how to craft those hilarious yet thought-provoking satire essays that leave readers chuckling and pondering? Well, you've come to the right place!

Have you ever found yourself chuckling at the absurdities of life and thought, 'Hmm, there's definitely an essay in that'? Ever pondered how humor could be used to shed light on societal quirks and injustices? If so, you're already on your way to mastering the art of satire writing.

In this guide, you'll learn the ins and outs of writing satire essay examples. We'll cover everything from choosing the perfect topic to mastering the satire techniques. So, grab your pen, and let's have some fun being funny together.

What is a Satire Essay

A satire essay blends humor with social commentary to critique societal issues, human behavior, or institutions. Unlike traditional essays, it aims to entertain while highlighting life's absurdities.

This genre of writing uses wit, irony, sarcasm, and exaggeration to expose flaws and contradictions in society, targeting politics, popular culture, social norms, and human nature. It also addresses serious topics humorously, sparking conversation, inspiring change, and drawing attention to important social issues.

Satire essays come in various forms, from biting political critique to playful social commentary. Whether it's through clever wordplay, absurd scenarios, or biting satire, the goal of you as an essay writer is to entertain, enlighten, and challenge readers to see the world in a new light.

Who Said Essays Have to Be Dull?

Order our witty satire essays and transform your writing from dull to delightful.

Types of a Satire Essay

Learning how to write a satire essay requires you to understand its different forms, each with its own unique style and approach to humorously critiquing society. Whether you ask us to write my essay or tackle it yourself, understanding its different types can help you choose the best format for conveying your message effectively. Here are some common types:

Types of a Satire Essay

  • Juvenalian Satire : This type of satire is harsh, bitter, and angry, focusing on exposing societal injustices, hypocrisy, and corruption.
  • Horatian Satire : Named after the Roman poet Horace, this satire is lighthearted, playful, and witty, aiming to amuse while gently poking fun at human folly and societal absurdities.
  • Menippean Satire : This satire is complex and unconventional, combining prose, verse, and various literary genres to critique society from multiple angles.
  • Political Satire : Political satire humorously highlights the absurdities of politics, aiming to provoke thought and inspire change through parody and humor.
  • Social Satire : Social satire critiques broader societal issues and cultural norms, such as relationships, consumerism, and technology, to prompt reflection on societal absurdities.
  • Literary Satire : Literary satire uses literary conventions to critique traditions, genres, and authors, often through parody and metafiction.
  • Visual Satire : Using images, cartoons, and caricatures, visual satire conveys satirical messages through humor and symbolism, often seen in political cartoons and memes.

25 Satirical Essay Topics

The topic you choose sets the stage for your humor and social commentary. From politics to pop culture, there's no shortage of informative essay topics that are also ripe for satirical critique. Here are 25 distinctive satirical essay ideas to inspire your satire:

  • The Absurdity of Celebrity Culture : Explore the obsession with fame and the cult of celebrity.
  • The Folly of Fashion Trends : Poke fun at the ever-changing world of fashion and beauty standards.
  • The Myth of Perfect Parenting : Satirize the pressure to be a perfect parent in the age of social media.
  • The Madness of Modern Technology : Lampoon our addiction to smartphones and social media.
  • The Dystopia of Dating Apps : Examine the pitfalls of online dating and hookup culture.
  • The Hilarity of Health Trends : Satirize the latest wellness fads and diet crazes.
  • The Chaos of College Admissions : Explore the absurdities of the college application process.
  • The Paradox of Political Correctness : Critique the complexities of navigating political correctness in today's society.
  • The Irony of Environmental Activism : Satirize the contradictions inherent in environmental activism and green living.
  • The Comedy of Corporate Culture : Examine the quirks and absurdities of office life and corporate culture.
  • The Farce of Fashion Weeks : Lampoon the extravagance and pretentiousness of fashion weeks around the world.
  • The Lunacy of Reality TV : Poke fun at the manufactured drama and shallowness of reality television.
  • The Nonsense of Self-Help Books : Satirize the industry of self-help books and motivational seminars.
  • The Ridiculousness of Social Justice Warriors : Critique the extremes of social justice activism and virtue signaling.
  • The Comedy of Conspiracy Theories : Explore the bizarre world of conspiracy theories and their believers.
  • The Absurdity of Gender Stereotypes : Satirize traditional gender roles and societal expectations.
  • The Hypocrisy of Holistic Healing : Examine the contradictions of alternative medicine and holistic healing practices.
  • The Parody of Political Campaigns : Poke fun at the theatrics and absurdities of political campaigns and election cycles.
  • The Comedy of Class Reunions : Lampoon the nostalgia and awkwardness of high school reunions.
  • The Folly of Fast Food Culture : Satirize the excesses and consequences of fast food consumption.
  • The Madness of Memes : Explore the cultural significance and absurdity of internet memes.
  • The Farce of Fashion Magazines : Critique the unrealistic beauty standards and consumerism promoted by fashion magazines.
  • The Hilarity of Home Renovation Shows : Poke fun at the exaggerated transformations and drama of home renovation reality shows.
  • The Paradox of Patriotism : Satirize the contradictions of nationalism and patriotic fervor.
  • The Comedy of Cults and Communes : Examine the absurdities of fringe religious movements and utopian communities.

How to Write a Satire Essay: Outline Guide

Creating a solid satirical essay is like serving up a delicious dish of humor with a side of social commentary. But where do you start? How do you take your witty observations and turn them into a compelling satire essay? Fear not! In this section, we'll break down how to write a satire essay outline step by step, starting with crafting the perfect thesis statement.

How to Write a Satire Essay: Outline Guide

Start with a Thesis Statement 

Writing a satire essay thesis statement is about encapsulating your satirical take on a particular issue or topic in a clear and concise manner. Your thesis statement should capture the essence of your satire – the target of your humor and the underlying message you're trying to convey.

For example, let's say you want to write a satire essay about the obsession with social media. Your thesis statement might be something like: 'In a world where likes and retweets reign supreme, social media becomes the ultimate stage for showcasing our most curated selves, blurring the lines between reality and virtual validation.'

This thesis statement sets the stage for your satire by highlighting the absurdity of our social media-driven culture and the disconnect between our online personas and real-life experiences. It presents a clear viewpoint that you'll then explore and dissect throughout your essay with humor and wit.

So, next time when crafting your thesis statement or asking us to write my thesis , remember to:

  • Identify the specific issue or topic you want to satirize.
  • Express your satirical take on the issue in a clear and concise manner.
  • Ensure your thesis statement sets the tone for the rest of your essay and guides your readers toward your humorous critique.

Explain Your Idea in the First Body Paragraph

Now that you know how to start a satire essay and lay the foundation with your thesis statement, it's time to dive into the first body paragraph. Begin by expanding on the central idea introduced in your thesis statement. Keep the tone light and playful, but also ensure that your satire is rooted in truth and relevance.

Continuing with our example thesis statement about social media obsession, the first body paragraph might delve into the ways in which social media platforms have become integral parts of our daily lives. You could discuss the addictive nature of scrolling through feeds, the pressure to curate the perfect online persona, and the impact of social media on mental health and self-esteem.

Use descriptive language and vivid imagery to paint a picture of the absurdities inherent in the topic you're exploring. Highlight contradictions, hypocrisies, or ironies that underscore the satirical angle of your essay.

For instance, you might describe the lengths people go to for the perfect selfie or the absurdity of chasing virtual likes and validation. You could share personal anecdotes or humorous observations to bring the topic to life and engage your readers' imaginations.

Add More Layers in the Second Body Paragraph 

Building upon the groundwork laid in the first satire essay paragraph, this section allows you to explore additional facets of the topic and further develop your satirical critique. Start by identifying specific examples, scenarios, or observations that illustrate the absurdities or contradictions inherent in the topic you're satirizing.

Here, you might focus on the ways in which social media distorts our perceptions of reality and fuels a culture of comparison and envy. You could discuss the phenomenon of "FOMO" (fear of missing out) and the pressure to present a flawless image online, even if it's far from authentic.

You might also share stories of people going to extreme lengths to capture the perfect Instagram photo or the impact of cyberbullying and online harassment on mental health.

As you write the second body paragraph, strive to maintain a balance between humor and substance. Use humor to engage your readers and keep them entertained, but also provide meaningful commentary that prompts reflection and critical thinking.

Wrap Up with Impact 

As you wonder how to end a satire essay, remember to summarize the key points you've made about the topic at hand.

For example, in our satire essay about social media obsession, the conclusion might reiterate the pitfalls of seeking validation through likes and retweets, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and genuine human connection in a digital age.

Reflect on the broader implications of the topic you've explored and offer insights or suggestions for addressing the issues raised in your satire. This could involve proposing alternative approaches or solutions in a humorous manner, providing a sense of closure and hope amidst the laughter.

Finally, consider the overall impact of your satire essay and the emotions it evokes in your audience. Did you succeed in entertaining, enlightening, and provoking thought? Did you strike the right balance between humor and substance? Now that you know how to write a conclusion for an essay , reflect on your writing process and consider how you can continue to refine your skills as a satirist.

Handy Tips and Tricks

Before you begin making funny comments about society, let's talk about some easy tips to help you start. Writing a satire essay is all about being funny, using irony, and being a bit smart. If you need some assistance, you can ask us to help me do my essay . But for now, let's take a closer look at how you can improve your skills.

  • Pick Your Focus : Satire works best when you make fun of something specific in society that you find funny or annoying.
  • Try Different Things : Use different ways to be funny, like making jokes, using irony, or exaggerating things.
  • Keep an Eye Out : Pay attention to what's happening around you for ideas. Satire often comes from real-life events or how people act.
  • Look at Things Differently : Try writing from different viewpoints, like pretending to be a silly politician or a funny commentator.
  • Have Fun : Remember, satire is all about having a good time and making people laugh. So, enjoy yourself and don't take it too seriously.

Satire Essay Examples

Through humor and wit, these satire essay examples offer insightful critiques of their respective subjects, demonstrating effective techniques for crafting satirical commentary.

4 Satire Essay Examples from World Literature

Satire is a popular tool in world literature, where famous writers use humor and irony to poke fun at society and human foolishness. Let's look at some well-known satire essay examples from literature and see how they work:

  • 'Gulliver's Travels' by Jonathan Swift : Swift's 'Gulliver's Travels' is a political satire masterpiece. Through Lemuel Gulliver's wild adventures, Swift mocks 18th-century British society and human nature. One famous episode is Gulliver's visit to Lilliput, where tiny inhabitants squabble over silly things like how to crack an egg. Swift uses these absurdities to show the silliness of politics and people.
  • 'Don Quixote' by Miguel de Cervantes : Cervantes' 'Don Quixote' pokes fun at chivalric romance. The main character, Don Quixote, is a delusional knight who goes on crazy quests to revive chivalry. Through his funny adventures, Cervantes criticizes the exaggerated ideals of honor and love. The book shows how fantasy can clash with reality in funny ways.
  • 'Animal Farm' by George Orwell : Orwell's 'Animal Farm' is a powerful satire on totalitarianism. Animals rebel against humans on a farm, but soon, pigs take over and become dictators. Orwell uses the animals to represent political figures and ideas, showing the hypocrisy of authoritarian rule.
  • 'Candide' by Voltaire : Voltaire's 'Candide' is a sharp satire on Enlightenment optimism. The main character, Candide, faces tragic and absurd situations but still believes everything is great. Through Candide's crazy adventures, Voltaire mocks the blind optimism of his time, revealing the harsh truths of human suffering and foolishness.

Final Words

Give yourself a pat on the back – you made it to the end of our writing adventure! With your sense of humor and a fresh understanding of life's funny quirks, you're all set to let your creativity loose on the page.

Just a friendly reminder: Satire isn't just about making jokes – it's a way to start conversations, question the status quo, and maybe even shake things up a bit. So, don't hold back! Try out different styles, go where your imagination takes you, and most importantly, be yourself.

Bored of the Same Old Essays?

Time to shake things up! Inject some humor into your academic life with our side-splitting satire essays.

How to Write a Satirical Essay?

What is a satirical essay, what is a good satire essay topic.

Daniel Parker

Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

how do you start a satire essay

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

Related Articles

How to Find Credible Sources

How To Write a Satire Essay?

20 February, 2021

13 minutes read

Author:  Richard Pircher

As a high school or college student, you definitely have your fair share of assignments. From carrying out backbreaking research on late historical figures to writing endless essays, school work can be a tad draining. However, one assignment that always seems to have students in a fix is the satire essay.

Satire Essay

Writing an essay on satire is one of the hardest tasks you’d come across in high school or college. This kind of essay typically requires a vast knowledge of the subject matter and a great sense of humor. 

This leads us to the big question: how do you write a Nobel prize-worthy satirical essay? Let’s find out. 

What Is a Satire Essay? 

Satire is a literary device or genre employed by a significant number of professional authors. This genre is particularly aimed at criticizing a person or group of persons for their vices, wrongdoings or shortcomings. 

Usually, satire is used to shed more light on significant political or cultural issues within a society. A satire essay is a type of essay that employs devices such as sarcasm, humor and irony to mock a particular person, situation or ideology. Basically, it pokes fun at certain people or situations in an elite and sarcastic manner. 

How to Write a Satire Essay: Writing Tips

satirical essay

Wondering how to write a satire essay? Even though it may seem like a daunting task, writing a satire essay can be a seamless process once you apply the following tips: 

Choose an original and relevant topic

So you need to write a satire essay. The first step to take is to choose your topic. In some cases, your teacher or professor may assign a topic to you, but more often than not, you’d need to come up with a topic of your own. 

In this case, decide the area you want your essay to focus on. You could focus on a political or social situation, depending on what you want. 

However, it is advisable to choose a topic that you’re familiar with. This way, it will be easier to dig up facts and evidence to support your point of view. 

Consider your audience 

Your audience is the focal point of your essay. As such, it’s very important that you consider them at every stage of the writing process. Is your essay aimed at high school students or college professors? 

Would it be read by professionals or just your fellow students? Identifying and considering your audience will help to determine the appropriate tone for your essay. 

If your target audience is mostly made up of fellow students and friends, you can get away with using a casual tone. However, if you expect professionals to read your work, it’s advisable to go for a more formal tone in your essay. 

Add lots of humor 

What makes a satire essay so interesting? Is it the topic or the author’s writing style? Well, the major spice of any satire essay is the generous use of humor. You want to make your audience laugh at the ridiculousness of a particular person or situation. As such, the best way to achieve this aim is by applying devices like irony, sarcasm and hyperbole. 

When used tactfully, these devices can have the desired effect on readers. 

Stick to plain facts

Inasmuch as satirical essays employ devices like humor and exaggeration, it’s important to stick to plain facts when writing your essay. Adding incorrect theories or outright lies to your essay would only render it invalid in the court of public opinion. 

As such, it’s important to only state facts that can be backed up by strong evidence. For further credibility, cite your source after stating figures, theories or opinions. 

This would assure your audience that your essay is credible. If you can’t find facts or evidence to support a particular argument, then it is advisable to avoid including it in your essay. 

Use the ELP format

The ELP format is a great way to ensure that your satire essay is professional and of stellar quality. ELP is an acronym for ethos, logos and pathos. 

These three elements form a significant part of your essay and can either make or mar your work. But how and when do you employ them in your essay?

Ethos informs the readers about the issue at hand and their pre-existing beliefs. As such, this tool should be used in the introductory part of the essay to lay a foundation for the readers. 

Logos provides the audience with pure facts and figures, thereby adding credibility to your work. 

Pathos, just like the term implies, would evoke the appropriate feelings and emotions in your audience. Whether you’re trying to evoke sadness, sympathy or anger, using this tool the right way would help you achieve your aim. 

Be tolerant 

Even though a satire essay is often riddled with sarcasm and irony, it’s important that you use these devices without making any offensive statement. 

Your audience will definitely be made up of people from different walks of life. As such, you don’t want to make remarks that may be deemed to be discriminatory or offensive to a particular sect. 

Knowing the boundary between satire and being outrightly offensive is a delicate art that requires practice and a keen understanding of human psychology. However, to ensure that your essay is in no way offensive, you could ask for second opinions from your colleagues or teacher. 

How to Find Original Topics

With how difficult satire essays are, you’d think no one would be writing them. However, a quick Internet search would show you an abundance of already-written satire essay topics. In fact, choosing a topic that has not already been written by someone else can be a daunting task. 

If you’re trying to find original satire essay ideas or topics, here are a few tips that may help you: 

Find major political or cultural events

If you look around you, you’d definitely find a wide range of interesting political or cultural events that would make for a brilliant topic. Go through published articles, media publications and the news to find resources for your dream topic. 

Brainstorm interesting ideas

Once you’ve gone through the resources listed above, you can then go on to brainstorm any ideas you may have come up with. Ensure that your topic is interesting and witty enough to catch the attention of your readers. 

70 Satire Essay Topics 

Struggling to find original satire essay topics that would interest your audience? Well, here are some sample topics on different subject matters that would definitely inspire you:

  • The royal family and Princess Diana: a mystery that never got solved
  • What would today’s world look like if the Holocaust had never happened? 
  • The best American presidents in history vs Donald Trump: a tale of two worlds 
  • How World War II should have turned out
  • What was so special about Attila the Hun anyway? 
  • More than just his height: a review of Abraham Lincoln’s policies 
  • The real truth behind Thanksgiving: why was it created? 
  • Adolf Hitler and the Holocaust: a not so shocking tale of his prejudice 
  • The never-ending cold war between Catholics and Protestants: how it all started
  • Why slave trade should have been abolished before it even started
  • Trump: analyzing why political leaders should steer clear of social media 
  • Politicians and broken promises: a match made in heaven
  • Is political correctness the perfect cure for all modern ailments? 
  • The gun-slinging citizen: an analysis of the legalization of guns and fire-arms in the United States 
  • Freedom of speech and what happens after you make your speech in today’s world
  • How to deal with electoral loss: handy tips from the best losers
  • Pro-life VS Pro-Choice: the never ending moral argument between conservatives and liberals 
  • How to satisfy the United States’ healthcare needs
  • Why the death penalty should have died many centuries ago

Marriage and Family 

  • Being a cool parent in today’s world: everything you need to know
  • Is married life really overrated? Asking for a single millennial
  • The United States’ secret behind its high divorce and separation rates
  • The perfect recipe for a peaceful divorce in today’s world 
  • Should same-sex marriage be legal in every part of the world? 
  • Saving for the kids’ college: the bane of every married couple 
  • Big weddings or small weddings? The ultimate introvert-extrovert war
  • Trying to have a tight family discussion: a how-to guide
  • Should women walk on hot coals barefoot to please their fiancé’s parents? 
  • Why the internet is the perfect place to seek relationship advice
  • Why true love is as real as Santa Claus and Jack Frost
  • All is fair in love and war: is it really? 
  • What happens when you fall in love with two different people? 
  • Why millenials should normalize leaving first dates immediately it becomes awkward 
  • How to start a conversation on a first date without being awkward
  • Cohabitation: ten lies you’d find on the internet in today’s world 
  • Why dating sites should have existed in the 18th or 19th century 
  • Finding love in the 21st century: are dating sites the modern version of arranged marriages? 
  • How pickup lines determine the start of a strong modern relationship 
  • Should there be an age limit on love between adults? 
  • The slow yet sure eradication of chalkboards from modern classrooms
  • Why dropping out of school is an under-rated decision for millenials 
  • Are good grades a social construct created to frustrate students? 
  • Why the social pyramid in high school exists and how to navigate it
  • Dealing with bad grades: the ultimate guide to getting over a failed exam
  • Should parents panic when their child drops out of school? 
  • Why detention is a failed attempt at disciplining high school students 
  • Online learning: has the pandemic done anything for school truants? 
  • Why bullying and bullies should be eradicated from high school systems
  • Should you be a wallflower or social butterfly in high school? 
  • How television and social media slaughtered newspapers and buried them
  • Does the media truly influence people’s lives and decisions in today’s world? 
  • The Media and political leaders: who is a better liar? 
  • Fake news: how to squash its occurrence in today’s media 
  • Television vs social media: which one played a bigger role in COVID-19 sensitization? 
  • Is Facebook a peeping Tom? How social media ruined everyone’s privacy
  • Is the free press really free or is it being controlled by puppet strings? 
  • Censorship vs free speech: what do millennials really need? 
  • Scandals and brand wars: is there anything like bad publicity? 
  • Why free publicity never works for brands and modern celebrities 
  • How to become a millionaire without robbing a bank or grocery store
  • Money can’t buy you happiness: the biggest lie ever told to mankind
  • Why being broke can be the ultimate death sentence for anyone
  • How to save money without literally starving to death in today’s world
  • Why working hard does not necessarily translate to more money for you
  • Should billionaires exist? Analyzing Jeff Bezos’ wealth and the plight of Amazon’s workers 
  • Why financial books are a complete waste of money and valuable time
  • The gender pay gap: how to close it in the 21st century
  • Why does money have a therapeutic effect on most people? 
  • Analyzing Robinhood’s lifestyle: is it okay to steal from the rich and give to the poor? 

Satire Essay Examples 

Still not sure how to write the perfect satire essay? Well, in this case, you can always refer to a well written satire essay example. Here are some satire essay examples that would definitely set you on the right track:

https://thecampanile.org/2019/10/23/satire-why-climate-change-is-fake/

https://manysmallvoices.wordpress.com/tag/satire/

Write a Satire Essay with HandMadeWriting

With these few tips and examples listed above, you can now go on to draft your very own satire essay. However, if you’d rather not go through the hassles of writing it yourself, you can hire HandMadeWriting essay writer services. 

With us, you are guaranteed a stellar, well-written satire essay that would definitely impress your teacher and audience. 

A life lesson in Romeo and Juliet taught by death

A life lesson in Romeo and Juliet taught by death

Due to human nature, we draw conclusions only when life gives us a lesson since the experience of others is not so effective and powerful. Therefore, when analyzing and sorting out common problems we face, we may trace a parallel with well-known book characters or real historical figures. Moreover, we often compare our situations with […]

Ethical Research Paper Topics

Ethical Research Paper Topics

Writing a research paper on ethics is not an easy task, especially if you do not possess excellent writing skills and do not like to contemplate controversial questions. But an ethics course is obligatory in all higher education institutions, and students have to look for a way out and be creative. When you find an […]

Art Research Paper Topics

Art Research Paper Topics

Students obtaining degrees in fine art and art & design programs most commonly need to write a paper on art topics. However, this subject is becoming more popular in educational institutions for expanding students’ horizons. Thus, both groups of receivers of education: those who are into arts and those who only get acquainted with art […]

TheGreatAndrew

Full Guide: How to Write a satire Essay

A satire essay is one of the most complicated academic papers you will ever write. It requires not only a good grasp of language, but also the ability to use irony and hyperbole to get your point across. TheGreatAndrew, a leading satire essay writing service , has researched the intricacies of satirical writing to bring you up to speed. Learn how to write a satire essay here!

What is a Satire Essay?

A satire essay is an academic essay that uses humor, irony, and exaggeration to point out a social problem. George Orwell’s Animal Farm is an excellent example of how you can write a satirical essay and express your thoughts.

Purpose of a Satire Essay

A satirical essay is primarily intended to point out weaknesses, absurdities and vices, such as corruption, gender stereotypes and other social issues. It does this with humor, irony, parody, exaggeration, and sarcasm.

Instructors will assign satire essays to help you think creatively and critically about various social issues. By learning how to write a satire essay , you can also improve your ability to use literary techniques such as irony.

Types of Satire Essays

There are many types of satire essays, mainly differ in tone. 

A horatian satire , for example, uses light-hearted humor to expose social problems. In contrast, a Juvenalian satire uses an aggressive style to expose social ills.

Other common types of satire essays that our satire essay helpers work on are:

  • Menippean satire
  • Social satire
  • Burlesque satire
  • Ironic satire
  • Parody satire
  • Political satire

Format of a Satire Essay

The format of a satire essay is similar to that of an ordinary academic paper. It consists of three main parts – an introduction, a main body and a conclusion.

The introduction gives an overview of the topic you are satirizing. It also contains your thesis. In the body of the satire essay, you present your satirical point of view, and the conclusion summarizes your essay.

How to Write a Satirical Essay: The Writing Process

If you want to write a satire essay that will be graded well, you should go through your assignment. The brief will help you determine the topic, tone, and points to emphasize. The brief also contains all the information you need to stay on track with your writing.

After reading the brief, follow these steps to get the job done:

  • Research your topic. Research your topic thoroughly. Your research should focus on the topic or issue you want to satirize, including its history, causes, and effects. This will give you a solid foundation for your satire.
  • Create an outline. Create an outline that will guide you through the writing process. Think about what angles you could take to highlight societal ills. Then organize your ideas into a clear and logical structure that includes an introduction, paragraphs, and a conclusion.
  • Write your satire essay. Begin writing your essay. Start with the introduction and work your way through each paragraph to the conclusion. Remember to use humor, hyperbole, and irony to make your point and appeal to your audience.

How to Write a Satire Essay: How to Format

When writing a satire essay, you can use different formatting styles. The formatting you choose will depend on your instructor and your academic discipline. Assuming your instructor does not specify which formatting style you should use, you can use the following outline as a guide:

  • AMA (American Medical Association) is appropriate for medical papers
  • APA (American Psychological Association) is suitable for psychology and sociology papers.
  • ASA is for sociology and social sciences
  • Chicago is for humanities
  • Harvard / Turabian is suitable for natural and social sciences
  • IEEE (Institute of Electrical & Electronics Engineers Style) is ideal for technical work, e.g. in the computer sciences
  • MLA (Modern Language Association) is for the humanities

How to Write a Satire Essay: Importance of Writing

Learning how to write a satirical essay has many benefits. For one, the essay enhances your wit by encouraging you to convey messages satirically and ironically.

In addition, satire essay writing has other benefits, including:

  • Better communication. To write a satirical essay, you need to analyze your audience and know the right language to use to communicate with them. This process makes you a better communicator who knows the right message for a particular audience.
  • Stimulate the conversation. Satire essays are often controversial and thought-provoking. They can lead to meaningful discussions and debates about social issues such as corruption, politics, gender inequality and more.
  • Improved writing skills. Writing a satire requires a strong understanding of language and tone. Learning how to write a satirical essay will sharpen your ability to write persuasively.
  • Sharpen your creativity. Writing a satire essay can take your imagination to a higher level. It challenges you to think outside the box and find creative and witty ways to get your point across.
  • Improves your understanding of social issues. Writing a satire essay encourages you to analyze and critique social, political or cultural issues in a satirical way. After writing a few essays, you will develop a deeper understanding of various social issues.

How to Write a Satire Essay: Top Writing Tips

According to our experienced writers who are paid to write essays , writing a good satire essay starts with reading and understanding the evaluation rubric. Understand the purpose of the assignment, the deadline, the format, and the grading criteria. These guidelines will keep you on the right track.

Use the following instructions and tips as a benchmark for writing an essay that will earn the highest score:

  • Research the topic. In order to write a successful satire essay, you should know exactly the topic you want to write about. Do your research and gather relevant information. Once you understand it, you will find it easy to write.
  • Choose a strong topic. As a rule, you should choose a topic that is relevant, interesting and has the potential to generate humor. With such a topic, it will be easy for you to write an enticing satire.
  • Use humor professionally. Humor is a key element of satire, but you should not abuse it. Always make sure it is appropriate, relevant and contributes to the overall message of your essay.
  • Structure your essay properly. A well-structured essay is easier to follow and more engaging to read. If you ask us, “write me a satire essay,” our expert believes that structure is a prerequisite for a good grade. Use clear paragraphs, transition words and a strong introduction and conclusion.
  • Editing and proofreading. Once you have finished working on your essay, you should edit and proofread it. Look for spelling and grammatical errors, inconsistencies, and sentence structure problems and correct them.

How to Write a Satire Essay: Common Mistakes Students Make When Writing

Misusing satire is one of the biggest mistakes students make when writing a satire essay. Although the essay is meant to be humorous, the wrong use of satire will offend your target audience. You will not get the highest score with such an essay.

Other common mistakes students make when writing a satire are:

  • They do not understand the audience. The audience determines the tone in which you deliver your message. So if you do not understand your audience, you are likely to use a style that will not resonate with them.
  • You choose an irrelevant topic. A satire essay should criticize topics that are relevant to society, politics, or culture. A trivial topic makes the satire essay unserious.
  • Lack of a clear thesis. A thesis is just as important in a satire essay as it is in any other academic paper. Without it, your satire can become confusing.
  • To be too broad. Satire is most effective when it focuses on a specific topic. If you cover too many ideas in a single satire essay, the impact of the message will be diluted. Your essay will become unfocused.
  • Forget proofreading and editing. A satire essay requires the same attention to detail as any other academic paper. Neglecting proofreading and editing can lead to errors that affect the quality of your satire essay.

How to Choose Topics for Your Satire Essays

When selecting a topic for your satire essay, choose one that is relevant and meaningful to your audience. Look for topics that are currently being debated or discussed in politics or popular culture.

Once you have found a potential topic, think about how you can comment on or criticize the issue with humor, irony, or hyperbole. This is the simple process when you ask us, “do my satire essay.”

Examples of Satire Essay Topics

Some top topics for satire essays ordered by students are:

  • The absurdity of modern politics
  • The folly of celebrity worship
  • The stupidity of conspiracy theories
  • The hypocrisy of religious extremism
  • The insanity of bureaucracy

How Long Should a Satire Essay be?

A satire essay can be between a few hundred and several thousand words long. The length depends on the depth of the satire and the target audience. Your assignment will always specify the actual word count.

However, if the professor gives you the word count, you can use the following as a guide:

  • High school: 250 – 1,000 words
  • College: 250 – 1,000 words
  • University: 750 – 1,250 words
  • Masters: 750 – 1,250 words
  • PhD: 750 – 1,250 words

Learn More on How to Write a Satire Essay

We are your go-to source for your “ write my satire essay” request. We handle various coursework including essays, dissertations, and research papers. Our team consists of experts from various academic fields. Each of them specializes in their field to provide you with the best assistance. So, you can be sure that they will help you write a top-notch satire essay that will get a good grade.

Buy satire essay and let an expert give your essay a professional touch.

FAQs About Satire Essay Writing

Here you will find short answers to frequently asked questions about writing satire essays.

What are some typical target audiences for satire essays?

The target audience for satire essays can be politicians, corporate executives, the public, or religious organizations.

What techniques are used when writing a satire essay?

There are several techniques used when writing a satire essay. The most common include exaggeration, irony, parody, and sarcasm.

How do you strike a balance between humor and seriousness in a satire essay?

An excellent way to achieve this balance is to use humor sparingly while keeping the audience’s emotions in mind.

Full Guide: How to Write a Response essay

Full guide: how to write a reflection paper, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

How to Write a Satire Essay

HOW TO WRITE A SATIRE ESSAY

If you do not have the slightest idea of writing a sarcasm essay, study this full post to gain in-depth knowledge of what this educational task requires, how to begin, and finish it. Composing such a piece requires you to apply funniness to clarify particular issues. The essay can be complicated and hard to draft if you do not understand the basics.

The trick to crafting a high-quality piece is to employ humor to illustrate or explain controversial human problems or inadequacies on the subject matter.

Perhaps the extensively renowned satirical essays are expounded on political situations. An ideal instance of a practical satirical article is Saturday Night Live’s Weekend Update. The information introduced is authentic, yet the truths are misrepresented and curved in a manner that conjures a comic disposition.

In some instances, a professor might not give a specific topic. However, monitoring existing subjects and occasions that cover a particular circumstance or theme can give you pointers on what to draft about. It’s hard to determine what news is satirical in a political setting. Therefore, you have to explore reliable data to support your claims.

Table of Contents

What is a Satire Essay?

A satire essay definition denotes a kind of writing whereby the theme is mocked. Literary devices such as hyperbole, imagery, sarcasm, and irony are used to make the article more vibrant and intriguing. While such a paper can have a word limit of 250, it can extend and cover several pages depending on the instructor.

Guidelines on How to Write a Good Satire Essay

“How do I compose an intriguing satire essay?” It is among the top queries that learners who are encountering this article for the first time ask. Although acing such a task is essential, the ideal way to make your essay attractive is to add humor and hyperbole. Some of the top satire essay guidelines that will ensure your work is top-notch include:

Comprehend your assignment. Before you start composing a satire essay, it’s critical to understand its essential prerequisites and rules.

Utilize the principal storyteller’s point of view. Storytelling works to create a vivid picture so that the professor understands quickly. It’s also a way to avoid miscommunication.

Write an outline of what you want to discuss and ensure you follow them keenly. It helps to stay focused on your writing.

Top 4 Tips for Writing a Satire Essay

If you do not know how to compose a satire essay worthy of a good grade, then you might create content that makes you come off as rude. To avoid that, here are some satire essay tips that can help you compose quality content.

Use ethos, logos, and pathos for each contention you present to convince the professor. Ethos advises individuals regarding their convictions and issue. Logos demonstrate to the group of spectators with certainties and insights. Tenderness brings out sentiments and suitable feelings to the topic: compassion, sympathy, trouble, etc.

You need to figure out how to utilize parody and incongruity in the most tolerant manner with no hostile comments. It ensures that you do not cause any offense.

  • Counterclaims

Utilize counter contention to challenge and convince the reader. For starters, they will consider you an expert essayist since you present a goal analysis instead of adhering to just your assumptions. The counterclaim will assist you with looking at the issue from another point of view. Besides, it’s essential for you as an author to demonstrate why the counterclaim won’t work.

  • Trustworthy sources

To compose a satire essay requires one to use credible sources that act as proof to support your arguments.

Experts Guidelines on How to Start a Satire Essay

Conceptualizing is a ground-breaking framework for finishing any scholarly task, and it’s instrumental in designing your satire essay. Try an air pocket outline. This primary and successful instrument empowers word relationships with reasonable topics to bring out numerous pertinent components and pick the best ones.

It will assist you in choosing how to move toward your task. After selecting a decent topic for your paper, build up a solid theory to grab readers’ eye, and come to your meaningful conclusion.

Expert Tips on How to End a Satire Essay

Keep in mind, composing a satirical essay can be enjoyable. It should mirror your genuine beliefs on the current issue. Much like intelligent essay writing, you have some innovative opportunity when composing a satire essay.

Make sure to back up your feelings with credible proof about the subject matter. That is the thing that makes it successful – joining actual solid facts with a turn that impacts readers to think a specific way. Sarcastic composing is exceptionally powerful and obstinate, so when perusing your last draft, ensure that you can feel a draw of influence.

An Excellent Satire Essay Outline

For the most part, in the satire essay format, it is critical to comprehend the assignment before you start composing the task. Have you been approached to caricature a specific topic or a particular zone of culture? To what extent should your essay be? Is there any specialized prerequisite that you have to know to finish your paper? What style ought to administer your configuration decisions? Do you have to compose things as an outsider looking in?

The Perfect Satire Essay Structure

Like any other piece of writing, this type of essay is not different. It follows the same structure to come up with a winning piece. An organized essay is classified into three portions. These are:

  • The introduction;
  • Conclusion.

The content for each section is discussed in the text below.

The Perfect Satire Essay Introduction

With regards to your essay’s introduction, ensure your opening sentences motivate the professor to read further. You may begin with a smart adventure or even a statement from a renowned person.

Concerning how to compose the first paragraph for a satire essay, give your perspective and a short explanation concerning why you chose that subject. Challenge the feelings of your group of spectators and encourage them to uncover their sentiments in this fragment.

Writing Your Satire Essay Body

Concerning your satire essay structure, the body utilizes the ELP strategy. What is the ELP procedure? The condensing’s represent ethos, logos, and pathos:

  • Ethos: This is where the issue is characterized, and the importance is explained to one’s crowd utilizing satirical elements like mockery to uncover shortcomings, for example, lip service. In this segment, you also need to portray your thinking and discover your perspective towards the current issue.
  • Logos: This is the part of your essay where you have to give your readers genuine proof. Parodies are intended for people; however, this joke must be joined by precise data. In this way, in this area, you have to present the subsequent contention and afterward back it up with facts.
  • Pathos: Emotions with regards to these sorts of essays, are viewed as fundamental. In the third paragraph, try to deliver content that will make anyone giggle hard.

The Perfect Satire Essay Conclusion

This section of your essay repeats your hypotheses and afterward thinks of a sensible clarification to the contention.

Order Your Satire Essay Today!

From picking a topic, choosing things that appear to be absurd, composing the essay, and writing this essay can be overpowering. In such scenarios, we are here to help. Our academic essay writers can assist you at any phase in the composing procedure, regardless of whether it is conceptualizing thoughts or composing a custom satirical essay based on a specific topic. To get a high-quality essay that improves academic performance, get in touch with us today!

order poster

Crafting Wit and Wisdom: A Guide to Satire Essay, Topics and Examples

image

Table of contents

  • 1 Definition of satire and its historical background
  • 2 Elements of a Satirical Essay
  • 3 Choosing a Topic
  • 4 Analyzing the Subject Matter for Potential Angles of Satire
  • 5 Writing the Essay
  • 6 What is a Satirical Essay: Examples of Satirical Essays
  • 7 Fine Line Between Satire and Offensiveness
  • 8 Concluding Thoughts: The Art of Writing the Satire Essay

In this insightful article, we delve into the realm of satire essays, a unique form of writing that blends criticism with humor.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

  • Unveiling the essence of satire essay, its history, and types like Horatian and Juvenalian.
  • Exploring the vital elements of a satirical essay, emphasizing a robust thesis, and the use of irony and sarcasm.
  • Navigating the process of choosing engaging topics, including 50 hand-picked suggestions.
  • Detailed guidance on structuring your satirical essay for maximum impact.
  • Learning from examples of renowned satirical essays.
  • Understanding the delicate balance between satire and sensitivity.

Join us as we explore these facets of satire essay writing, equipping you with the knowledge to create compelling, thought-provoking academic essays .

Definition of satire and its historical background

pic

Satire, a literary genre known for its clever blend of humor and critique, has a rich history and diverse forms. Originating in ancient times, satire has been used to expose follies and vices in society, individuals, and institutions. The two main types of satire are Horatian and Juvenalian. Horatian satire, named after the Roman poet Horace, is characterized by a light-hearted and humorous tone, aiming more to amuse than to condemn. In contrast, Juvenalian satire, inspired by the Roman poet Juvenal, is more severe and abrasive, often expressing indignation and moral outrage.

The role of humor, irony, and exaggeration in satire cannot be overstated. These elements are tools for satirists to entertain, provoke thought, and challenge the status quo. For instance, exaggeration can highlight the absurdity of a situation, while irony can reveal contradictions and hypocrisies.

When considering topics for satire, it’s important to choose ones that resonate with the audience and remain relevant. Satire essay topics can range from light-hearted social commentary to more biting political criticism. The key is to select a subject that offers ample scope for humor and insightful critique. A satirical essay becomes an impactful tool for social commentary and change by selecting and handling these topics.

Elements of a Satirical Essay

A satirical essay is a unique fusion of humor and criticism woven to convey a thought-provoking message. Central to its success is a robust, clear thesis statement. This serves as the essay’s cornerstone, encapsulating the satirical argument. The thesis should be forthright and reflect the writer’s stance on the subject matter, whether it’s tinged with mockery, a critical edge, or a humorous slant.

The employment of rhetorical devices like irony, sarcasm, and parody is integral to the essence of a satirical essay. Irony stands out as a potent tool. It enables writers to express one thing while implying something else, often the opposite. This juxtaposition of the literal and the intended meaning adds layers to the satire, enriching its impact. Sarcasm, a variant of verbal irony, is adept at mocking or expressing disdain. On the other hand, parody involves imitating a subject or style to expose its flaws and absurdities.

A satirical essay is a clever blend of humor and critique, anchored by a clear, strong thesis and brought to life with the strategic use of rhetorical devices like irony, sarcasm, and parody. The choice of topic is crucial, as it needs to lend itself to satirical treatment, allowing the writer to lampoon the subject while engaging and enlightening the reader.

Choosing a Topic

The best topics for a satirical essay are those that resonate with your audience and remain relevant over time. Current events, social behaviors, and cultural phenomena are fertile grounds for satire. While choosing, consider what things to write a satire about that would engage and provoke thought in your readers. The effectiveness of your satire will depend on the relevance and universality of the topic selected.

When considering satire ideas, the topics should be chosen for their potential to be viewed through a satirical lens. This could involve turning a critical eye on societal norms, political policies, or even everyday absurdities. Funny satire topics revolve around current events, popular culture, or universal human behaviors, offering a wealth of material for insightful yet humorous critique.

Satirical essay ideas should aim to entertain, provoke thought, and encourage reflection. Topics to satirize can range from the mundane to the controversial, each offering a unique opportunity to highlight inconsistencies, hypocrisies, or the humorous side of life.

Here are some current and timeless topics that work well for satirical essays.

  • The Perpetual Pursuit of the Perfect Body Image
  • The Digital Detox: Escaping Social Media’s Grip
  • The Billionaire Space Race: A New Playground for the Rich
  • Fast Fashion Frenzy: The Race to the Bottom of Your Closet
  • The Automation of Everything: When Robots Take Over Daily Tasks
  • The Evolution of the Coffee Culture: From Bean to Obsession
  • The “Influencer” Lifestyle: Reality vs. Instagram
  • The Political Tug-of-War: A Satirical Look at Partisan Politics
  • The Self-Help Paradox: More Books, Less Clarity
  • The Tech Disconnect: Smartphones and the Illusion of Connection
  • The Art of Procrastination in the Digital Age
  • The College Admissions Arms Race: A Game of Prestige and Pressure
  • The Corporate Buzzword Bingo: Synergy, Leverage, and Disruption
  • The Quest for Immortality: Silicon Valley and the Fountain of Youth
  • The Satire of Surveillance: Living in a Panopticon
  • The Cult of Productivity: Doing More, Enjoying Less
  • The Modern Dating Scene: Swiping Left on Romance
  • The Vegan Revolution: Meatless Mondays and Beyond
  • The Age of Misinformation: Navigating a Post-Truth World
  • The Gig Economy Grind: Freedom or Freelance Frenzy?
  • The Generation Gap: Baby Boomers vs. Millennials vs. Gen Z
  • The Reality TV Paradox: Fame, Fortune, and Fabrication
  • The Luxury of Minimalism: Spending More to Have Less
  • The Endless Streaming Cycle: From Binge-Watching to Burnout
  • The Battle Against Aging: Creams, Serums, and Unrealistic Expectations
  • The Festival of Fads: Detoxes, Cleanses, and Other Health Mysteries
  • The Tyranny of the Tidy: Marie Kondo and the Quest to Declutter
  • The Irony of Connectivity: Lonelier in a More Connected World
  • The Mirage of the “Perfect” Family on Social Media
  • The Paradox of Choice in the Modern Consumer Society
  • The DIY Disaster: When Pinterest Dreams Face Reality
  • The Pursuit of Happiness Through Retail Therapy
  • The Sacred Rituals of the Morning Routine YouTube Gurus
  • The Mock Election: Satirizing Political Campaign Promises
  • The Superhero Syndrome: The Oversaturation of Comic Book Movies
  • The Great Organic Odyssey: Is It Really Better?
  • The Exotic Pet Epidemic: From Tigers to Tarantulas
  • The High Seas of Hobby Collecting: From Stamps to Sneakers
  • The Dystopia of Driverless Cars: Are We There Yet?
  • The Parable of the Paperless Office: More Paper Than Ever

Analyzing the Subject Matter for Potential Angles of Satire

Once you’ve selected a topic, the next step is to analyze it for satirical potential. Begin by identifying the subject’s inherent absurdities, hypocrisies, or contradictions. This critical examination allows you to uncover potential angles for satirical commentary. For example, in political satire, you might focus on discrepancies between a politician’s words and actions. In cultural satire, you could highlight the extremes of societal trends. This stage is vital as it sets the foundation for your satirical approach, shaping the direction and tone of your essay.

Remember, the goal is to provoke thought and discussion by presenting familiar issues in a new, humorous light. Your analysis should strike a balance between humor and insight, ensuring that your satire resonates with the audience while offering a fresh perspective on the topic.

Writing the Essay

Writing a satirical essay involves a strategic combination of humor, criticism, and a well-structured satirical essay outline . Begin with an engaging introduction that captures the essence of your satire. This could include an anecdote, a surprising fact, or a bold statement setting your essay’s tone. The introduction should culminate in a clear, concise thesis statement that encapsulates your satirical stance.

As you move into the body of your essay, each paragraph should focus on a specific aspect or example of your topic. This is where you can showcase different types of satire, such as irony, exaggeration, or parody, to strengthen your argument. Use vivid and descriptive language to paint a clear picture for your readers. Incorporating real-life examples or referencing satirical essay examples can illustrate your points. Balancing humor with factual information is important, ensuring your essay is entertaining and informative.

Consider using various rhetorical strategies to enhance your satire when developing your argument. Techniques like hyperbole can exaggerate your topic’s absurdities, while irony can highlight contradictions and inconsistencies. Sarcasm can add a sharp edge to your critique. Remember, the goal is to provoke thought and encourage a deeper understanding of the subject matter through humor.

In the concluding paragraph, summarize the main points of your essay, reinforcing your satirical message. The conclusion should echo your thesis and leave a lasting impression on the reader. A well-crafted conclusion will tie all your ideas together, emphasizing the significance of your satire and its impact on the reader’s perception of the topic.

Throughout your essay, maintain a consistent tone and style. The best satire essays are those that blend wit with wisdom, using humor as a tool to shed light on serious topics.

What is a Satirical Essay: Examples of Satirical Essays

pic

The satirical essay genre blends humor with incisive social commentary. This essay leverages wit to critique everything from political policies to societal norms, often revealing underlying truths in an entertaining and thought-provoking way.

A classic satire essay example is Jonathan Swift’s “A Modest Proposal ,” a pinnacle of Juvenalian satire. Swift’s essay, known for its biting and ironic tone, suggests that the impoverished Irish could alleviate their financial woes by selling their children as delicacies to the wealthy. This preposterous idea is not a whimsical musing but a sharp indictment of the brutal British policies towards the Irish and a comment on the apathy of the Irish people to their own plight.

This essay is a prime illustration of how to start a satire essay. Swift adopts a grave and sincere tone to advance an absurd proposition. This stark contrast between his tone and the ludicrousness of his proposal accentuates the absurdity of the situation he critiques. This strategic use of irony, where the true intent is veiled behind an opposite statement, is common in satirical essays. It allows writers to deliver powerful critiques in an engaging and impactful manner.

Another form of satire is Horatian satire, deriving its name from the Roman poet Horace. This type of satire differs from the abrasive Juvenalian style. A more playful, lighthearted approach characterizes Horatian satire. It tends to poke fun at human foibles and follies without aiming to cause distress or provoke significant change. It’s a more subdued and humorous satire, intending more to amuse than agitate.

For authors drafting a satirical essay, the choice of satire type is vital. It should align with both the subject matter and the intended message.

By analyzing seminal works like Swift’s “A Modest Proposal,” writers can learn to employ satire, creating works that are not just humorous but also insightful and thought-provoking. Effective satire has the power to be an influential tool for social commentary and change, making it a valuable and enduring form of literary expression.

Fine Line Between Satire and Offensiveness

Navigating the delicate boundary separating satire from offensiveness is paramount. While satire wields the potential for profound impact, it teeters on the edge of insensitivity. Responsible satirists know their audience and the broader context, ensuring their work critiques without inflicting harm. When addressing sensitive subjects, a delicate equilibrium is required. Satire becomes a tool for enlightenment rather than alienation or offense, using humor to shed light on societal issues without causing undue distress.

Concluding Thoughts: The Art of Writing the Satire Essay

In summary, the art of satire is a powerful yet intricate tool, merging humor with sharp social observation. Its core objective is to question established norms and provoke self-reflection. To write an effective satire essay, one must balance insightful critique with an approach that avoids offending. This genre requires a delicate touch, using wit and irony to make a point. An essential aspect of crafting a satirical piece involves creating a well-structured outline that supports the satirical thesis while engaging the reader. The creators and consumers of satire need to appreciate its significant potential to influence and its inherent responsibility towards society. Satire is not a literary device but a call to use its capabilities with wisdom and consideration.

Readers also enjoyed

How to Write an Article Critique Step-by-Step

WHY WAIT? PLACE AN ORDER RIGHT NOW!

Just fill out the form, press the button, and have no worries!

We use cookies to give you the best experience possible. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy.

how do you start a satire essay

Improve your writing in one of the largest and most successful writing groups online

Join our writing group!

What is Satire? Examples, Definition, and How to Write Satire

how do you start a satire essay

by Fija Callaghan

You’ve probably come across satire in your daily life without even realizing it. From contemporary pop culture platforms like Saturday Night Live to the hand-drawn caricatures artists use to pull in the tourists, satire is everywhere.

But what does satire mean, exactly, and where does it come from? Can it ever be useful to us as poets and fiction writers? Keep reading for everything you need to know about this contentious literary device.

What is satire?

Satire is a literary genre which uses a fictitious lens to ridicule or draw attention to real-world failings, especially societal or political issues. Satirical stories often use elements like irony, hyperbole, and juxtaposition to show the reader the innate silliness or degradation in a person, group of people, or societal value.

For example, if you want to take a stand against a corrupt and dangerous political party, you could write a story about a ridiculous and lecherous king who inadvertently drives his kingdom into poverty. Or, if you want to draw attention to the arbitrariness of racial segregation, you could write a satire about a society in which people are judged by whether they were born at an even-numbered hour or an odd one.

Satire uses fiction to highlight something silly or damaging about the world we live in.

By taking an element of the world around you that you disagree with and amplifying it, you can convey a real and powerful social commentary to your readers.

What’s the difference between satire and parody?

Satire and parody have a lot in common, and it’s easy to get them confused. Sometimes, they even overlap. The main difference between satire and parody is the message they’re trying to convey to their audience.

A parody emulates another work or body of work using exaggeration and humor. The purpose of a parody is to entertain. For example, Scary Movie is a parody of the horror movie genre, and Pride and Prejudice and Zombies is a parody of Jane Austen’s famous novel. Rather than relying on deep, thought-provoking themes, these parodies use comedy to create a fun reading or viewing experience.

A satire, on the other hand, is a form of social criticism. While it often uses humor (though not always—we’ll look at the different types of satire below), its purpose is to make the audience think about a social issue in a new way or draw attention to aspects of these issues that have been problematic.

For instance, a satire of the horror movie genre would probably be less funny and more focused on asking questions about why people are drawn to body horror, or why certain tropes so often feature minority identities. In other words, satire is meant to get people thinking critically about human nature. And Pride and Prejudice is already a satire! It uses humor to poke fun at the constricting marriage conventions and social politics of the time.

Types of satire in literature

We tend to think of satire as one literary genre, but did you know there are actually a few different kinds? Here’s a closer look at the different types of satire you’ll find across history.

Horatian satire

Horatian satire, popularized by the Roman poet Horace, is a lighthearted and comic way of poking fun at the foibles of human nature. While this type of satire encourages its audience to examine their own errors of judgement and grow, the social criticism tends to be on a more personal level—Horatian satire isn’t trying to bring about a widespread cultural change.

Contemporary examples of Horatian satire are tongue-in-cheek news platforms like The Onion or The Colbert Report . Gulliver’s Travels by Jonathan Swift—one of recent history’s most notable satirists—is a famous example from classic literature. Today, this is generally what we think of when we think of the word satire.

There are four different kinds of satire: Horatian, Juvenalian, Menippean, Visual

Juvenalian satire

If you think Juvenalian satire is juvenile, you’re off the mark—the name comes from the poet Juvenal. This type of satire is dark, bitter, and carries a core message: something is very wrong in the world today, and Imma tell you why.

Juvenalian satire isn’t meant to make the reader laugh, but rather to draw the reader’s attention to problems in contemporary culture. You’ll often find this type of satire in dystopian fiction. For example, The Hunger Games can be seen as a Juvenalian satire of reality television and celebrity culture.

Menippean satire

Menippean satire comes from the philosopher Menippus, and refers to satirical writing that explores broad, general flaws in humanity. Traditionally, these often denounced the problems in upper class intellectualism and elitist attitudes towards the working class. However, Menippean satire can also be used as a lens through which to examine contemporary issues like homophobia, agoraphobia, or racism.

This type of satire can overlap with Horatian and Juvenalian satire, and it can be amusing or bleak. Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland , which pokes fun at the pastimes of the Victorian elite, is an example of Menippean satire.

Visual satire

Visual satire communicates satirical perspectives through a visual lens, like animation or comic books. The most common examples of these are political cartoons, in which the artist says a lot of big ideas in only a moment. Cartoons like The Simpsons often communicate social and political satire in a visual way, as do comic strips like Calvin and Hobbes .

If you’re writing a comic book or graphic novel, you have a wide range of visual literary devices available to you. Even if you’re writing a satirical prose novel, remember that your cover illustration can communicate to your deeper meaning, too.

Examples of satire from popular culture

Here are some more examples of beloved satires—the dark and the light—across classic literature.

Temporary by Hilary Leichter

If you’re of a certain generation and have crossed paths with a computer in the past decade or so, you’ve probably come across the toxic buzzphrase of corporate nightmare, “Hustle culture.” The protagonist of Leichter’s novel yearns for the one thing all little girls dream of: a steady job with benefits. Unfortunately, her career is one of being thrown from one temp role to another, which include becoming a department store mannequin, pirate, surrogate mother, and personal assistant to an assassin, among other jobs.

Temporary both mocks and illuminates the way attitudes towards the millennial workforce, job security, and career advancement have changed, making the reader laugh and ask probing questions at the same time—exactly as a good satire should.

Self Care by Leigh Stein

In today’s hustle-happy day in age (see previous), we could all use a little self care. However, there are those that take it a little too far in the name of Likes, free stuff, and artificial self-validation. Self Care follows the founders of a wellness community and app called “Richual,” in which people (read: love-starved women) can track their mindfulness minutes, “me time,” and other measurements of self care on the app, then compare results with all their friends. Nothing like a little competitive spirit to be your best self.

This novel is a rich satire of a personal practice which has, in recent years, become immeasurably commercialized. It encourages the reader to take a break from their phone and consider what self care really means.

Cold Comfort Farm by by Stella Gibbons

The oldest twentieth-century example on this list, Cold Comfort Farm was published in 1932 as an intentional satire of a certain genre of rural fiction—think the Brontë sisters, Jane Austen, and Lucy Maud Montgomery. The protagonist, Flora Poste, is a meddling city girl who moves in with her eccentric family in the sticks. The family consists of a cousin who’s a preacher just a bit off his rocker, a cousin who moons around the countryside quoting poetry, another cousin with a healthy dose of roguish charm, a cow named Pointless, etc., etc. And don’t forget the creepy crumbling manor house.

If this sounds familiar, that’s because these tropes have been done to death, which makes them fertile ground for satirical writing. This novel is a great example of how you can use a satirical approach to take tired clichés and give them a fresh lease on life.

How to incorporate satire into your own writing

As a literary style, satire can be a wonderful way to explore political issues and expose flaws in the world around us in a light-hearted, entertaining way. It can be thought-provoking, and even—the goal of all truly great literature—put into motion a real change.

Here are some things to keep in mind while you explore the long tradition of satiric storytelling.

All satire should carry a key theme about human behavior or societal norms.

Consider your core message

All satires have a message they’re trying to communicate with the reader—it could be the absurdity of the housing crisis, or the toxicity of the lengths some people will go for love. Try and pinpoint what social, personal, or political issue you want the reader to take notice of before you begin writing. Then, your entire story structure is built around this message.

Once you know what you’re trying to say, you can look for small details that you can enhance for dramatic effect (and we’ll look at how to do this down below).

Create an allegory

An allegory is a story within a story —an entertaining fictional narrative overlying a deeper true narrative. For example, Animal Farm is a story about a community of farm animals who come together after their farmers leave. It’s also a story about the politics of the Russian Revolution. George Orwell uses the family-friendly overstory to create an indirect satire of the political figures of the time.

If your core message is delicate or potentially inflammatory, consider if there’s another story you could use as a framing device to convey your message in a clear, accessible way.

Use irony and hyperbole for dramatic effect

Irony and hyperbole are the cornerstones of satiric writing. Hyperbole, or extreme exaggeration to make a point, draws the reader’s attention to certain aspects of the work (you see this a lot in cartoons and other satiric art forms). By taking these aspects to their extreme, you encourage your reader to re-examine them in their own lives.

Irony achieves a similar effect. By using words or scenes that convey the opposite of what the reader or character expects, you encourage readers to question why those expectations exist in the first place. You can read more about using irony as a literary device here .

Use symbolism and metaphor

Satire is rich in symbolism and metaphor beyond its literal meaning. Very often, objects, characters, and places in a satire mean something other than what they first appear as. An expensive handbag could be a metaphor for the global disparity of wealth, or a shoebox filled with childhood memorabilia could be symbolic of coming of age in a rapidly shifting society.

Symbolism, metaphor, and irony are just some of the tools available to create compelling satire.

When writing your satire (and particularly in the revision process), look for places in which you can heighten your story’s message using these thought-provoking literary devices.

Convey theme—not cruelty

It’s super important to remember that satire is a vehicle for social change—not a cheap opportunity to tear people down. Try to frame your message around ideas, social frameworks, and cultural beliefs rather than specific people. And instead of using your writing to simply say, “This sucks,” try saying “This sucks—but we can do something about it.”

Consider your destination, not just the vehicle.

Satire is a tool for humor, social commentary, and widespread change

Satire is a great literary genre for making people laugh—but it can also be used to explore serious topics and real-life cultural issues the world is facing today. You can convey satire through hyperbole, metaphor, and other literary devices, and through it, encourage people to think about society in a fresh and critical way.

Get feedback on your writing today!

Scribophile is a community of hundreds of thousands of writers from all over the world. Meet beta readers, get feedback on your writing, and become a better writer!

Join now for free

how do you start a satire essay

Related articles

how do you start a satire essay

Cliché vs. Trope in Writing: How They Differ, with Examples

how do you start a satire essay

Transgressive Fiction: Breaking Free from the Norms of Creative Writing

how do you start a satire essay

What Is Anachronism? 4 Types of Anachronism, with Examples from Literature

how do you start a satire essay

How to Show, Not Tell Pain

how do you start a satire essay

What is Rhythm in Literature? Definition and Examples

how do you start a satire essay

What is Foreshadowing? Definition, Types, Examples, and Tips

  • Essay Topic Generator
  • Summary Generator
  • Thesis Maker Academic
  • Sentence Rephraser
  • Read My Paper
  • Hypothesis Generator
  • Cover Page Generator
  • Text Compactor
  • Essay Scrambler
  • Essay Plagiarism Checker
  • Hook Generator
  • AI Writing Checker
  • Notes Maker
  • Overnight Essay Writing
  • Topic Ideas
  • Writing Tips
  • Essay Writing (by Genre)
  • Essay Writing (by Topic)

Writing a Satire Essay: Guide and Examples

Satire has many forms that can be used to write works practically about any topic. Knowing where to start can be tricky if you have never encountered similar tasks at school before. But there’s no need to worry! Our team has developed this helpful guide for such an occasion. We will explain the basics of satirical essays and provide valuable tips on making them.

This article will also provide plenty of topic ideas on popular themes to make your work less stressful. You’ll also get to check out several satire essay examples that can serve as an inspiration for your work. Use our guide to make your paper come out great!

😁 The Basics of Satirical Essays

🔎 types of satire, 📝 writing a satire essay.

  • 💡 Best Satirical Topics
  • 🤩 Satire Essay Examples

📎 References

The American historian Barbara W. Tuchman states, “Satire is a wrapping of exaggeration around a core of reality.” This quote perfectly describes this exciting and controversial genre. But what is the definition of satire anyway? It’s the art of making something ridiculous, laughable, or discrediting. Satire is one of the oldest literary genres, dating back to Ancient Greece and the rhetorician Quintallian . It has different types, but their purpose is largely the same.

You can use satire to make fun of political ideologies, excessive militarism, or the pitfalls of modern society.

That’s precisely what many authors like George Orwell, Terry Pratchett, Joseph Heller, and Jaroslaw Hasek did in their works. They give a funhouse mirror look at real or fictional concepts and, sometimes, a mix of both.

Satire is moral outrage transformed into comic art. – Philip Roth.

Every essay type has an essential role, and this one is no exception. A satire essay serves the same purpose as its larger counterparts. It lets you poke fun or criticize things you find absurd. A paper can ridicule anything from the agony of bureaucratic procedures and nonsensical laws to the media climate and pop culture scene. It allows you to voice your opinion on these matters in a lighthearted and fun way.

Essentially, you can use three types of satire in your essays. Check them out before approaching a new piece of writing. This way, you’ll better select the most suitable for your subject and writing style .

Writing a satirical essay has much in common with other examples of this genre. You need an introduction, body paragraphs , and a conclusion. This section outlines the steps that will help you in this process. Read on to learn how to perfect your satire essay!

Four key steps you need to write a satire essay.

  • Step 1 : Select a topic. Find a subject that’s preferably already ridiculous or ironic. Your goal is to make it look even more exaggerated. Political c artoons are an excellent place to find a suitable theme for your essay.
  • Step 2 : Make your point through a hyperbole. Keep in mind that a hyperbolizing doesn’t necessarily mean lying. Instead, exaggerate the facts to highlight how absurd they are. For example, you can talk about how Norway’s economy is thriving thanks to the sheer amount of salmon they consume yearly.
  • Step 3 : Present your ideas through irony . This literary device uses words and phrases to tell the opposite of what they mean. It allows you to show a disconnect between someone’s expectations and what happens in reality.
  • Step 4 : Make it humorous. Keeping up a light tone can be challenging. But you should still do your best, as humor is a great way to get people to side with you and accept your position on an issue. It can win people over faster than weighted and meticulously explained opinions.

💡 Best Satirical Topics for an Essay

A satirical essay can be about any theme you like, from literary works to global events. To keep you from losing your head in this sea of possibilities, we’ve decided to present some of the funniest and most engaging topics for your writings.

But before we get started, here are some ideas on how you can come up with a cool satirical topic for your paper:

✅ Personal Experiences. Reflect on the moments from your life that struck you as odd or downright hilarious. Maybe it’s when you mistook a raccoon for your neighbor’s cat. Funny experiences often harbor unique insights that, when shared, can resonate with others due to their unexpected humor.

✅ Social Norms and Expectations . Explore instances when societal norms clash with reality. Let’s imagine your coworkers dressed in regular clothes to work while you and your friend dressed in Halloween outfits. By dissecting these contradictions, you can craft a story that entertains and subtly challenges societal norms.

✅ Current Events and Trends . Take a satirical lens to recent happenings, whether it’s an obsession with a new TikTok trend or an outfit from Rihanna or Doja Cat that other influencers are rushing to copy. Amplify the absurdity of these events to highlight their often-overlooked humorous side while satirizing the public’s reactions surrounding them.

✅ Everyday Life Observations . Delve into the nuances of daily life that typically go unnoticed. It could be the funny habits of your soulmate or people’s behavior on public transportation or elevators. By magnifying these quirks, you can reveal the hilarity and peculiarity of the routines we take for granted.

School and Education Satire Topics

  • How to master Google search for your academic pursuits.
  • The art of procrastination : How to avoid studying until the last minute.
  • How to ace an exam without studying.
  • The myth of a perfect student and how it wrecks the lives of collegegoers.
  • A satirical look at the pitfalls of contemporary American education.
  • College application essays: The most needless thing and how to ace it.
  • Why you should spend years earning a degree you’ll never use.
  • Group projects and how to survive them.
  • Funny utopian school: Where homework is banned and recess is eternal.
  • The unfair world of homework assignments.

Technology and Social Media Satire Topics

  • The Me generation: How social media raises an army of narcissists.
  • Informational addiction: Truth or even scarier truth?
  • Why you should post everything online.
  • Artificial Intelligence : Our doom or salvation?
  • The virtues of being a social media star.
  • Social media and its effect on your personal life.
  • How to wreck your life with Facebook.
  • TikTok and the modern media contagion.
  • Top 10 apps that ruin your life.
  • How to live one day without technology and stay sane.

Historical Satire Topics

  • A satirical look at the rise and fall of the Roman Empire.
  • The Third Reich’s WWII propaganda: A study in ridiculousness.
  • Fighting for peace: A short look at the arms race.
  • “Let them eat cake” and other phrases that changed history.
  • Historical influence of satire on the American Dream perception.
  • How the Cold War shaped American satire of the late 20th century.
  • Medieval gun control: Unsheathing the hilarity of sword registry laws.
  • The rise of authoritarianism and political satire.
  • 1812 and the folly of Napoleon.
  • Slavery in the land of the free.

Tips to help you come up with a satirical essay topic.

Politics and Government Satire Topics

  • The wonderful world of the two-party system.
  • Political promises: A study in honesty and integrity.
  • A satirical look at the theatrics of political ads.
  • The department of bureaucratic ballet: A satirical look at the government’s efficiency.
  • How the US bureaucracy became the monster everybody loves to hate.
  • A crash course in gaining political power without the fuss of democracy .
  • Political dodgeball: Avoiding questions made easy.
  • Ingenious solutions: How politicians promise to solve everything with catchy slogans.
  • How to survive your next Thanksgiving dinner.
  • How political division brings a country together.

Social Issues Satire Topics

  • Ten ways to avoid pressing social issues and feel good about yourself.
  • Why pulling yourself by the bootstraps no longer works.
  • Eating your way to a healthier life.
  • The luxury guide to poverty: How to embrace destitution with style.
  • How to become an effective cyberbully.
  • The selfie pandemic: A guide to self-obsession.
  • Unemployment reality shows: Who wants to be a broke millionaire?
  • Remaining private in a globally connected world.
  • How to become a cut-throat millionaire.
  • The great overpopulation and its humorous consequences.

Literature Satire Topics

  • How to bore your audience while looking important.
  • Outdated language: Making dictionaries cool again.
  • Crafting complex plots with just simple literary techniques.
  • A masterclass in confusing storytelling.
  • How to write a novel that people won’t buy.
  • The art of long-winded narrative in Stephen King novels.
  • Endings that made you throw books out the window.
  • Breaking the fourth wall and hilarious in-text solutions.
  • How to talk about books without reading them.
  • A guide to nonsensical plot twists.

🤩 Fantastic Satire Essay Examples

As we all know, theory is good but practice makes perfect. This is why we want to offer you these satire essay examples. Carefully reading through them will help you understand the elements they use and what makes them work. We suggest that you also try your hand at writing essays on these topics – compare them to our samples and see where you can improve!

  • Failed Leadership Can Only Be Whipped by Satire George Orwell used Animal Farm to critique totalitarian regimes that oppress the masses. The work pokes fun at many authoritarian movements, from fascism to communism, with a strong and charismatic leader usurping the top position and gaining full power. But most prominently it’s an attack on the October Revolution and the rise of Joseph Stalin as the leader. On a broader scale, Animal Farm serves as a satire of communism that ultimately didn’t meet the high expectations that the USSR’s citizens anticipated. Each character symbolizes a class or type of individual with strong and weak character traits. The novel’s antagonist, Master Jones, represents the bourgeoisie that exploits workers to death. The animals, a.k.a the proletariat, revolt and overthrow his iron rule. While things seem better for a while, thanks to the efforts and philosophy of a pig called Old Major, everything quickly turns for the worse. That soon results in many tragic events and the farm falling into the hands of another pig named Napoleon. He usurps the prime position much like Joseph Stalin did from Leo Trotsky . Any mentions of his political rival are met with brutal retaliation. Pretty soon, nobody remembers the original ideas that spearheaded the revolution. Ultimately, the pigs take over the farm and start to resemble humans. It is a masterful allegory of the oppressed becoming the oppressors. Animals become rulers of the farm, but most live in the same squalor they started with. Of course, nobody who is “ more equal than others ” ever complains.
  • Political Satire and Stephen Colbert Political satire has been around almost since the dawn of American independence. Over the past couple of decades, it has become a favorite subject of many shows, including the subject of this essay — Stephen Colbert . His The Colbert Report is a prime example of how to criticize the political climate with the right amount of humor and heart. Colbert’s approach to satire pulls no punches as he famously mocked former President George Bush Jr. during a White House Correspondent Dinner. He criticized Bush’s actions, lifestyle, beliefs, and foreign policy decisions. He especially criticized the decision to invade Iraq in 2003, which resulted in hundreds of thousands of casualties. Stephen Colbert used an ironic approach to discuss such issues to draw attention to them. While this was done lightheartedly, many people sided with Colbert. That allowed him to influence public opinion without being directly involved in politics. And Colbert always encouraged his viewers to do the right thing. Even though The Colbert Report ended in 2014, the man himself remains popular with American audiences. His current Late Night Show with Stephen Colbert enjoys millions of subscribers on YouTube and hundreds of millions of views. His previous program is still popular, with new people discovering it daily.

Thank you for reading our article. Hopefully, it helped you create a perfect satire essay. And if you need to find more ideas for your work, try out our essay topic generator !

❓ Satirical Essay FAQ

What is a satire essay.

A satirical essay sheds light on the absurdities of comical aspects of life. They are often used to criticize or make fun of a concept, a person, or a trend. This type of writing utilizes literary devices of irony and hyperbole to emphasize its message. Political satire is the most popular type in this field.

How to Start a Satire Essay?

Like any essay, it should start with an introduction. Here, you explain the theme of your work and what you want to shed light upon, be it a person, an event, or a concept. A good intro starts with a hook sentence for readers. Make it fun and engaging, and they’ll likely continue reading your satirical essay.

How to Write a Satire Essay?

First, find the right topic to make the subject of your essay. Second, use hyperbole and irony to point out the ridiculous aspects of the theme. You can check out examples of satirical papers to understand how these literary devices work. Finally, make the writing full of humor to drive your point home.

  • What is Satire? || Definition & Examples. – Evan Gottlieb, Oregon State University
  • 7 Satire Techniques With Tips. – Indeed
  • The Process for Setting up a Satire Essay. – Loudoun County Public Schools
  • What Is Satire? How to Use Satire in Literature, Pop Culture, and Politics—Plus Tips on Using Satire in Writing. – MasterClass
  • Satirical Writing. – Del Donno, Lone Star College-University Park
  • How to Write Satire. – Alex Baia
  • 4 Ways to Come Up With a Great Essay Idea. – Oxford Royale Academy
  • How to Use Satire, Sarcasm, and the Power of Contrast to Expand Your Writing Repertoire. – Dawn Bevier, Medium
  • Writing Satire Is Harder Than You Think. – Jeff Goins, Writer
  • Choosing a Topic. – The On-Campus Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University

Illustration

  • Essay Guides
  • Other Essays

How to Write a Satire Essay: My Personal Experience+Example

  • Speech Topics
  • Basics of Essay Writing
  • Essay Topics
  • Main Academic Essays
  • Research Paper Topics
  • Basics of Research Paper Writing
  • Miscellaneous
  • Chicago/ Turabian
  • Data & Statistics
  • Methodology
  • Admission Writing Tips
  • Admission Advice
  • Other Guides
  • Student Life
  • Studying Tips
  • Understanding Plagiarism
  • Academic Writing Tips
  • Basics of Dissertation & Thesis Writing

Illustration

  • Research Paper Guides
  • Formatting Guides
  • Basics of Research Process
  • Admission Guides
  • Dissertation & Thesis Guides

How to write a satire essay

Table of contents

Illustration

Use our free Readability checker

There is no such a student who has never been assigned to write a college satire essay when getting education. I am not an exception! Despite the fact that I have never had serious problems with academic writing before and I have a great sense of humor, I must admit that the satirical essay turned out not as easy as ABC. It wasn't much fun-I had to pull an all-nighter to choose a favorite topic on some social issues that would be interesting to most people in America; search for the relevant information everywhere, including media; find good examples, and finally write my work according to a certain structure. To tell the truth, the thought to order the ready satire essay from professional writers has crossed my mind because this kind of task seemed to be the most difficult one in my life. I had neither time nor the knowledge about its distinctive features. However, I decided not to email custom writers and take this challenge on my own as I didn't get used to giving up. Now, I am here sharing my personal satire writing experience with everyone who is just going to deal with this kind of the written task.  

A Complete Guide on How to Write a Satire Essay

Before I got started with my essay, I have checked a large number of funny satire essay examples belonging to different categories. While reading, it seemed to me that I would cope with this assignment easily. However, I was mistaken. In general, essay structure looked like the one other essays have but at the same time, I understood that this kind of paper has its own distinctive features and peculiarities. I had to check a lot of guides on how to write a satire essay before I got started with mine. All of them said that it's very important to find interesting controversial satire essy topics about some political, cultural, social issues. Usually knowing language on a good level is very helpful so it is better to attend English Courses if you don't have enough knowledge. Due to the fact that I didn't know much about the two last spheres, I decided to write about the famous Donald Trump. You will be able to check my piece of writing later. Before you look at the satire paper itself, you should have a clear picture of how your paper must look like in terms of structural elements. I would like to share my personal experience in structuring the satire paper in accordance with the required instructions given by my school teacher. Now, I am going to tell you how to write a satire essay the right way.  

  • An Introduction I think that all of you know that the first steps you should take are to think of a killer title, which I had to change for several times after having finished and to write an introduction. I've understood that if you want to attract the reader's attention, you need to start either with the intriguing question that your reader would like to answer, or some figures.

For example, if you are going to craft an essay about the well-known politician, - find some interesting facts about his/her life and career, start your work with some shocking information. Don't forget to include a powerful thesis statement at the end of your introduction. Write just 1-2 sentences keeping in mind that they must be informative and strong, expressing the main idea, and explaining to the reader what you are going to discuss in your work. I had to rewrite my introduction 3 or 5 times until I made it perfect. Every time when rereading I tried to imagine that I was a reader. This trick will help you to understand how the paper beginning sounds, whether it is able to hook or not.

  • The Main Body The process of writing the main body took me much time - a day or two if to be exact. This is due to the fact that this is a part where you are expected to provide all information on the chosen subject.

First, I had to find all the relevant materials and select those which could add some value to my paper. I used a lot of different information sources, including the Internet, published and electronic books online, magazine articles, blog posts, and a lot of various publications. I have checked every place where I could find something about Trump. I chose interesting pieces of information, gathered them like a puzzle, made sure that the main part of my essay was creative, original, and logical. Remember that it is better to stick to the 5-6 paragraph structure, which means that the main body will take the major part of your work-3-4 paragraphs. Use thematic essay examples while writing your task. The exact volume will depend on the number of facts you are going to use in your paper. The most difficult thing is to present the facts so that the reader feels where exactly you have used exaggerations, hyperbole, and another language device to poke fun.

  • The Conclusion As any other kind of academic paper, a satire essay should end with the brief conclusion. I wrote a short summary of all the ideas that I have included in the main body, and then added a couple of sentences explaining the reader my point of view and the reasons why I consider my work valuable for the today's generation. Can't come up with a thought-provoking conclusion? Rely on StudyCrumb's essay conclusion generator and get a nice ending made in seconds.

Check Good Satire Essay Examples Before You Get Started

Have you wanted to see my satire essay? Here, you are! Have a closer look at the piece of writing I have submitted and got an A-grade! 

The eccentric billionaire has become a symbol of anti-establishment sentiments that have swept the United States in the recent years. Having crushed the orderly number of forecasts of numerous experts, and the results of opinion polls, a candidate from the Republican Party Donald Trump won the presidential elections in the United States. The man who promised to "drain the Washington swamp" won. But will the hopes of his supporters be justified, when Trump as the 45th president of America will take decisions in the White House? While the United States was counting votes in the presidential election, and the scales were becoming more confident in favor of Donald Trump, the website of the state migration service in neighboring Canada was working intermittently. These disruptions seem to have arisen from the fact that many Americans have decided to examine the conditions of moving to the land of the maple leaf. The number of requests in Google about how to move to Canada, also sharply increased. According to one of the pre-election polls, 28% of Americans considered the option of leaving for Canada in the event of Trump's victory. They said that the US residents had a threat to go to Canadians - this is almost traditional national fun for the presidential elections. But it is unlikely that this "fun" was so serious before. Several American celebrities - from B. Streisand and Cher to Samuel L. Jackson and Whoopi Goldberg – threatened that if Trump would become their President, they would "choose freedom": go to Spain, to South Africa, or to Jupiter. In the information battles of the pre-election race against Donald Trump heavy artillery was used. The main caliber was hit in two directions. First: Trump is a misogynist and a womanizer. Second: Trump is a puppet of the Kremlin. Donald Trump himself played along with his critics on the "Russian" direction saying "I think I will get along well with Vladimir Putin. I just think so”. Trump shared his thoughts when he announced his intention to become a president. A few months later, he said that if he would be elected, it is unlikely that there will be problems in relations with Russia. Trump gratefully accepted the praise addressed to him by Putin: "It's always an honor to be praised by a man so respected in his own country and abroad. I always believed that together, Russia and the United States could defeat terrorism and restore peace. We could also trade with each other, not to mention other benefits." The businessman and showman, producer and politician are 4 in 1 and all these personalities are in one "great and terrible person" Trump. The showman, perhaps, is the key word in this series. Donald for many years was an active organizer of the Miss USA competitions. His cameo can be seen in several movies and television series. Trump entered the history of the American show business as the host and co-producer of the reality show The Apprentice on the NBC channel. So, after the Hollywood actor Ronald Reagan, a TV star appeared in the White House. Trump is a one hundred percent challenge to the system, which it must respond to in order to get out of the current state, where Trump appeared.

Want a similar satire paper? Contact StudyCrumb and get professional writing help from experts. 

Top-20 A-Grade Satire Essay Topics for You to Choose From

  • The smartest human of all the times.
  • Childish labor helps businesses to flourish.
  • D. Trump is the most famous President who is free in his self-expression.
  • H. Clinton always takes right decisions.
  • Trump and Putin have “friendly” relationships.
  • Are the US citizens happy with the President selection?
  • Comment on cultural differences and their influence on relationships between students.
  • Media: the best invention or the worst thing ever?
  • Today, people learn about their lives from the morning newspapers.
  • All harmful things have a great taste.
  • The best president in the US history.
  • Doing nothing is fashionable today.
  • A robot works better than real people.
  • Politicians and comedians have much in common.
  • Money values in the modern society.
  • Fast food – fast weight.
  • Satire in English literature.
  • A family business is the worst thing that may happen to the family members.
  • Living alone is much better than with anyone else.
  • Boring teacher-bored students.

Choose one of the above-mentioned satire essay topics, follow the tips for writing a satire essay, and I guarantee that you’ll get a high score! Never give up and treat the satire essay assignment as a fun thing to do demonstrating your unique sense of humor! Good luck!

Daniel_Howard_1_1_2da08f03b5.jpg

Daniel Howard is an Essay Writing guru. He helps students create essays that will strike a chord with the readers.

You may also like

thumbnail@2x.jpeg

  • How it works
  • Top Writers
  • TOP Writers

How To Write A Satire Essay

This article will guide you on how to write a satire essay in detail and will explain what a satire essay is as well as show you some examples. The text uses satire to make you understand its main objective. Assignments on this topic are known to be the most challenging for most students. In these kinds of essays, students need to show their expertise in content and subject area. Similarly, they should use humor to point absurdities found in our real-life situations . Although satire essays are full of humor, there are those without or minimal instances of humor. Most of them are expressed in a serious tone which shows that readers should take them seriously.

How To Write A Satire Essay

There are advantages of writing these kinds of essays more so to those individuals wishing to master the art of writing. Once you have learned how to infuse irony, humor, and hyperbole, you will discover them not only being fun but also easy to write.

  • Learning your Task

It’s crucial for you to understand every aspect of your writing assignment. You should be in a position to point out the following:

If your homework intends to satirize a given cultural topic

  • The length of the essay

Our formatting guide will help you select the right format to use while writing your assignment. You might be in a dilemma not knowing whether to write your paper in first, second or third person point of view. For those who have never read satire essays before, you should consider reading the work of Jonathan Swift’s A Modest Proposal who is well known for these types of pieces. If you are wondering where to find them, then consider the site “The Onion” which usually deals with the topics in politics.

While writing your assignment, incorporating satire enables you to write the essay in a first person’s point of view. This makes you point out issues in the society especially those concerning society and culture. Using an example where this article points women’s demeaning which is being explained by Trump’s Hollywood tapes leaked information (“Satire Essay,” 2019). Meme proposing that female gender should not oppose what amen say suggest that they are annoyed by his utterances. This is clearly shown through the work of E.L. James’s Fifty Shades of Gray showing a romantic relationship between female and male where the male is in total control and the woman is expected to submit to him.

Topics of Satire Essay

When writing a satire essay on any topics, it’s good to point out the significant events of culture and politics. The most common ideas you should consider while writing:

  • Border Walls
  • Hillary Clinton
  • Donald Trump
  • Barack Obama
  • Immigration reform

A list of satirical topics is endless and if you are unsure of what to select contact our support team who are ready to help you any time.

Brainstorming of Any Satirical Essay

Any good essay writing process begins with brainstorming. Brainstorming is a useful tool for all essay writers that plays a significant role even in writing a satirical essay (“Satire Essay,” 2019). While there are familiar writing outlines employed in the initial stages of planning, there are other methods that work perfectly well when it comes to satire writing tasks. One of the tools that are commonly used and we like most is the use of a bubble map. A bubble map is a simple tool that would be used starting from elementary schools onwards. The tool associates words in line with your topic of interest. For instance, if you decide to write a bubble map for any prominent figure in the society say, Donald Trump, you will diversify and use words like businessman, father, married, adulterer, divorced, New York City, orange, billionaire, bombastic, real estate, and home alone.

You can see from the above bubble map how those words bring out elements that are associated with Donald Trump. When it comes to descriptive essays on a dog, there would be some words in the middle like the name of that given dog (“Satire Essay,” 2019). When using the bubble map, you should be aware that the words you choose should not be your own words you decide to use while writing your essay. The words used should aid in exposing an issue and further directs on the ways of approaching it satirically.

Thesis Statements in Satire Essays

After deciding on the right topic, you should then come up with a good thesis statement for your essay. You may be wondering what a thesis statement is. Thesis Statement is merely a road map of your piece that is always one or two sentences. It helps your readers understand the primary objective of your essay. Regardless of your essay type, the structure of your thesis statement always remains the same except in satire essay where it differs slightly. In satire essays, it is different unlike situations when one is proposing a real idea.

Below are some examples of Thesis Statements:

To ensure the safety of your jewelry, you need to be conspicuous on it, ensure valuable jewelry is stored in a vault or deposit box that is safe, also, do not travel with excessive jewelry than (Author: Kim Kardashian-West)

Having a successful marriage is extremely simple: you have to identify your second wife while married to your first wife and have more children with her before you get married. (Author: Brad Pitt)

From the above examples, it is clear that the most satirical element in the essay is the individual writing it. Also, the target audience can be part of the satire. When Jimmy Carter wrote to Trump a letter informing him not to worry of offending women is satirical in a way since both Jimmy and Trump are respected figures in the United States of America.  The case of Bill Clinton is writing a letter to Barrack Obama to guide him on how to be a good husband while in the White House is Irony in itself. This is because Obama is well known for his excellence in family matters and he is perceived to be an excellent husband too. On the other hand, Bill had a lousy legacy as he had an affair outside marriage while in office. Finally, criticisms of Maddona of Lady Gaga of publicity or even Peter Rose Criticizing Tom utilize all aspects of double-satire.

Resources for Satirical Essays

A wide range of satirical essays is based on events happening in the current century. Though citing them directly may not be compulsory at the moment, it is essential for you to know the real facts and issues that are associated with a given situation (“Satire Essay,” 2019). It is even ironical for you to identify the satiric news sites. In this modern time, this would be much more difficult to notice concerning political context. To avoid all these troubles, you need to be careful while selecting your topic and ensure your sources are unbiased and academically reliable.

It can be difficult finding a reliable source for your essay. To be sure you have the right sources, use the sources that are not more than three years old and from reputable publishers like newspapers, magazines, and .com and .org websites. However, you are free to use sources for more than three years old, but you should inform your readers of any change of information in the concerned period.

Additionally, you might have been discouraged to use sources like Wikipedia, Britannica, and Encyclopedia while doing your writing assignments. The advice is good as these sources are not regarded as reliable sources in the scholarly world. However, do not allow the ban to prevent you from using the references (“Satire Essay,” 2019). They can give an excellent overview of your topic and give you resources you can research for further information.  Google scholar is another great search engine that gives you an opportunity to limit the kind of resources you want to look at. With the above search engine, you can find either academic or scholarly articles and would support you in finding the best academic and scholarly writing.

Other generic sites like CNN, Fox News, and MSNBC are also good sources of information while writing satire essays. Also, you can make use of other local and major networks as they are good sources of news. The above news channels have programs that are not sources but are both social and political commentary. While using these shows, you need to be careful as they sometimes present information to the readers in a biased way or give unreliable information. As you write be aware of possible biased information especially when selecting your sources.

Citing your Sources

If you decide to incorporate all your resources in your satirical essay, you will have to cite all academic sources to back-up any claim you make on certain political styles. If your essay is based on actual dates, rare facts, and figures, you need to cite all your sources. In such cases, you will be directed on the formats to use, or you will have to decide on your own . The most commonly used academic citation styles for undergraduate students are the American Psychology Association (APA), modern language association (MLA), and Turabian or Chicago. Unless in your assignment there are clear instructions on the type of format to use, go for the writing style you understand best.

Examples of Satire Essays

As a student, it’s easy for you to digest a concept if you are given an example. Thus, our model will not only help you understand how you can write an amazing satirical essay but will also help you master how you can format your essays correctly. On our site, you will get an excellent satirical essay. Just fill in the order form.

We hope that after reading our article on satire and using our provided examples, you will be more confident than before to confront any satire essay throughout your academic journey. Even after reading our article and examples you might still encounter challenges right from topic selection to completing your essay . Remember Tutoriage writing service is here for you. We have a complete team of tutors ready to help you in any challenge you encounter in your writing process from topic selection to writing a flawless piece. To get more insight, go to our website.

how do you start a satire essay

Essay Freelance Writers

How to Write a Satire Essay: A Step-by-Step Guide

May 4, 2024 | 0 comments

blog banner

May 4, 2024 | Blog | 0 comments

 Satire is a unique form of writing that allows individuals to use humor, irony, and sarcasm to critique and ridicule societal or individual flaws. Writing a satire essay can be a fun and creative way to express your opinions on a particular topic while also entertaining your audience.

However, crafting a successful satire essay requires careful planning and execution. In this step-by-step guide, we will explore how to write a satire essay effectively, from selecting a relevant topic to mastering the art of satire.

Whether you are a seasoned writer looking to explore new forms of expression or a student aiming to impress your teachers with your wit and insight, this guide will provide you with the tools and techniques necessary to write a compelling satire essay.

So grab your pen and paper, and let’s dive into the world of satire together. 

People Also Read

  • How to Structure an Informative Essay: A Step-by-Step Guide
  • How to Write an Interpretive Essay: A Step-by-Step Guide & an Example
  • How to Write an Interview Essay: A Step-by-Step Guide with Examples

What is Satire and Satirical Essay?

Satire is a form of humor that uses irony, sarcasm, or ridicule to criticize and mock people, ideas, or societal issues. It is often used to expose the flaws and shortcomings of individuals or institutions cleverly and entertainingly.

Through satire , writers and artists can challenge the status quo and provoke thought and reflection among their audience. It can serve as a powerful tool for social commentary and political criticism, shining a light on injustices and absurdities in society.

Satire essays, on the other hand, are a unique form of academic writing that combines criticism with humor and sarcasm. They are often used to poke fun at a person, situation, or issue in a witty and exaggerated manner. Writing a satire essay can be challenging, but with the right approach and understanding of the art of satire, you can craft an engaging and thought-provoking piece. 

Satire Versus Parody

Satire and parody are both forms of humor that involve exaggerating or mocking certain aspects of society or culture. However, they differ in their approach and purpose.

Satire is a more subtle and sophisticated form of humor that aims to critique or highlight societal issues in a clever and witty manner.

On the other hand,  parody is usually more overt and focuses on mimicking a specific work or style for comedic effect.

Understanding Satire and Its Purpose

Satire is a literary device or genre that employs humor, irony, and exaggeration to criticize or ridicule a person, situation, or societal issue. It often targets vices, wrongdoings, and shortcomings, shedding light on political and cultural issues.

Satire essays, therefore, use sarcasm, irony, and humor to mock and critique a particular subject. The key is to present your point in an elite and sarcastic manner, highlighting the absurdity of the situation or person being satirized.

Choosing a Topic for Your Satire Essay

The first step in writing a satire essay is selecting a topic. This can be the most challenging part, as you need to find a subject that is relevant, relatable, and offers scope for humor and criticism.

Consider choosing a political or social issue that is well-known and has a broad reach. Look at published articles, media publications, and news sources to find inspiration and identify potential topics. Some common areas to explore include:

  • Political figures and their actions
  • Social and cultural issues
  • Current events and controversies
  • Celebrity behaviors and trends

For example, you could write about “Border walls and government policies in America,” “Immigration reforms in the United States,” or “the impact of social media on youth.” These topics provide a broad canvas on which to inject your satirical commentary.

Top-20 A-Grade Satire Essay Topics for You to Choose From

  • Exploring the Absurdity of Social Media Influencer Culture
  • Dystopian Realities: A Satirical Look at Corporate Greed
  • Poking Fun at Political Correctness Gone Awry
  • Unraveling the Irony of Fad Diets and Wellness Crazes
  • Satirizing the Hypocrisy of Environmental Activism
  • A Humorous Critique of Celebrity Worship and Gossip Culture
  • Lampooning the Excesses of Consumerism and Materialism
  • Dissecting the Ridiculousness of Reality TV Shows
  • Hilarious Insights into the World of Pseudoscience and Conspiracy Theories
  • Mocking the Absurdities of Corporate Jargon and Office Culture
  • Exposing the Ironies of Modern Dating and Relationship Trends
  • Satirizing the Pretentiousness of Hipster Culture
  • Humorous Observations on the Quirks of Suburban Life
  • Skewering the Follies of Social Media Addiction
  • Witty Critiques of Fast Food and Unhealthy Eating Habits
  • Lampoons of the Insanity of Extreme Sports and Daredevil Stunts
  • Poking Fun at the Eccentricities of Academic Life
  • Satirizing the Absurdities of Fitness and Health Fads
  • Humorous Insights into the World of Modern Parenting
  • Mocking the Ridiculousness of Celebrity Endorsements and Product Placements

Understanding Your Target Audience

Knowing your target audience is crucial when writing a satire essay. Are you writing for fellow students, professors, or a general audience? This understanding will help you determine the appropriate tone and level of humor.

If your audience is primarily students, you can adopt a more casual and light-hearted tone. However, a more formal and sophisticated approach may be needed if your target audience includes professionals or experts.

Satire Essay Outline

Here’s a sample satire essay outline:

Title: Keeping Up with the Joneses: A Satirical Look at the Absurdity of Suburban Life I. Introduction A. Hook: A humorous anecdote about the extreme lengths some suburbanites go to maintain appearances. B. Thesis statement: Suburban life is rife with absurdities, from the obsession with lawn care to the never-ending pursuit of material possessions. II. Obsession with Lawn Care A. Satirize the intense competition to have the greenest, most pristine lawn in the neighborhood. B. Exaggerate the lengths people go to, such as using harmful chemicals and spending exorbitant amounts of money on lawn care services. C. Poke fun at the idea that a well-manicured lawn is a measure of one’s worth or success. III. Keeping Up with the Joneses A. Satirize the constant pressure to acquire the latest and greatest material possessions, from cars to gadgets. B. Exaggerate the lengths people go to, such as going into debt or working multiple jobs to afford these luxuries. C. Mock the idea that material possessions bring true happiness or fulfillment. IV. Homeowners’ Association Rules A. Satirize the ridiculously strict and often nonsensical rules imposed by homeowners’ associations. B. Exaggerate the consequences for breaking these rules, such as hefty fines or legal action. C. Poke fun at the idea that these rules are necessary for maintaining property values or community harmony. V. Suburban Social Hierarchies A. Satirize the perceived social hierarchies within suburban communities, based on factors such as wealth, neighborhood, or school district. B. Exaggerate the lengths people go to to maintain their status or climb the social ladder. C. Mock the idea that these social hierarchies are meaningful or valid. VI. Conclusion A. Restate the thesis and summarize the main points of satire. B. End with a final, humorous observation or anecdote that encapsulates the absurdity of suburban life.

Crafting Thesis Statements in Satire Essays

A strong thesis statement is essential for a satirical essay. It should provide a clear direction for your essay and capture the main point you want to make.

Your thesis statement should be included in the introduction, giving readers a preview of your argument and perspective. Just so you know, in a satire essay, your thesis statement may oppose your actual position on the subject, as you are adopting a satirical viewpoint.

For example, your thesis statement could be: “The recent trend of excessive social media usage among youth is a cause for concern, as it leads to a distorted perception of reality and hinders genuine human connections.” This statement sets the tone for your satirical critique of social media’s impact.

Writing the Introduction

The introduction of your satire essay should grab the reader’s attention and provide a brief overview of the subject. To engage your readers from the outset, you can start with a hook, such as a quote, statistic, or rhetorical question.

Then, provide some background information on the topic and transition into your thesis statement. Remember to keep the introduction concise and focused as you delve into the details in the body paragraphs.

Constructing the Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs are where you’ll develop your satirical argument and critique. Each paragraph should have a clear topic sentence that introduces the specific point you’re making.

Use examples, irony, and exaggeration to support your points and make them entertaining. Remember to address the values and beliefs of your audience, as this will enhance the impact of your satire.

Additionally, counterarguments and satirical techniques should be used to reveal the weaknesses of opposing views.

For instance, if you’re satirizing the excessive use of social media, you could write something like:

“The obsession with social media has reached new heights, with people spending more time curating their online personas than living their actual lives. The constant stream of selfies, food photos, and vacuous updates has become a substitute for genuine human interaction, and it’s about time we unplug from this virtual madness.”

Concluding Your Satire Essay

In the conclusion, you should summarize your main points and reinforce your satirical message. Provide a call to action or encourage readers to reflect on the issue. You can also include a personal opinion or reflection to add a final touch to your satirical critique.

For example: “As we navigate the digital age, it’s crucial that we don’t lose sight of what truly matters – genuine human connections and experiences. So, let’s put down our phones, look up, and embrace the world beyond the screen.”

Tips and Tricks for Writing a Satire Essay

Here are some additional tips to enhance your satire essay:

  • Use hyperbole and exaggeration to emphasize the absurdity of the situation or person you’re satirizing.
  • Stick to facts while presenting them in a humorous light. Avoid making up theories or stating incorrect information.
  • Use irony and sarcasm skillfully to critique and mock effectively.
  • Consider your audience’s reaction at every stage of the writing process. Avoid offensive statements and be mindful of the boundaries between satire and outright offensiveness.
  • Use current events and real-life situations as a source of inspiration and satire.

Check Good Satire Essay Examples Before You Get Started

If you’re looking for inspiration, here are some examples of satire essays:

  • The Conspiracy Surrounding Princess Diana’s Tragic Demise
  • The Mythos of the Gun-Slinging Citizen in American Society
  • “Why the Internet is the perfect place to seek relationship advice.”

Upgrade your humor and satire writing.

We are the best in the industry when it comes to upgrading your humor and satire writing skills. Our team of expert writers is experienced in creating engaging and witty content that will keep your readers entertained and coming back for more.

Whether you are looking to add a touch of humor to your blog, website, or social media posts, we have you covered. So why wait? Place your order today and start seeing immediate results in your writing.

Click the ORDER NOW button above to get our expert writing help and take your humor and satire writing to the next level.

Concluding Thoughts: The Art of Writing the Satire Essay

Writing a satirical essay is an art that combines criticism with humor and sarcasm. You can create an engaging and thought-provoking essay by choosing a relevant topic, understanding your audience, and skillfully using satirical devices.

Please maintain a fine balance between humor and critique, ensuring your message is conveyed effectively. With practice and a keen eye for satire, you’ll be able to craft satire essays that both entertain and enlighten your readers.

How to Write a Satire Essay FAQs

How do i start a satire essay .

To start a satire essay , begin by selecting a relevant topic that you want to satirize. Consider social issues, current events, or common behaviors that you find noteworthy. Once you have a topic, think about the satirical approach you want to take and develop a clear thesis statement that reflects your intention to critique or mock.

How do you write satire examples ?

Exaggeration and irony are key elements when crafting satire examples. Use humor to highlight the absurdity of your topic. Incorporate elements of parody, sarcasm, and wit to effectively convey your message in a way that entertains you while also making a point.

What makes a good satirical essay ?

A strong sense of humor, clever wordplay, and a clear target for criticism characterizes a good satirical essay. It should challenge conventional thinking and provoke thought while being entertaining. Finding the right balance between humor and critique is essential for a successful satirical piece.

What is a good satire essay topic ?

Choosing a satirical essay topic is crucial to the success of your piece. Consider topical issues, societal norms, political figures, or cultural trends that you can satirize effectively. Some common topics for satire include politics, social media, technology, education, or even everyday life situations that can be exaggerated for comedic effect.

alex

Through my engaging and informative blog posts, I aim to provide helpful tips on topics such as essay writing, research skills, and academic planning, empowering students to thrive in their academic pursuits.

discount

Most Popular Articles

Racism thesis statement example, how to rephrase a thesis statement, capstone project topic suggestions, how to write an abortion essay, should students wear school uniforms essay, list causal essay topics write, respect essay, signal words, great synonyms, informative speech examples, essay writing guide, introduction paragraph for an essay, argumentative essay writing, essay outline templates, write an autobiographical essay, personal narrative essay ideas, descriptive essay writing, how to write a reflective-essay, how to write a lab report abstract, how to write a grant proposal, point of view in an essay, debate topics for youth at church, theatre research paper topics, privacy overview.

Tips and Tricks for Writing a Good Satirical Essay

  • Amanda Smith
  • Categories : Help with writing assignments paragraphs, essays, outlines & more
  • Tags : Homework help & study guides

Tips and Tricks for Writing a Good Satirical Essay

What is a Satirical Essay?

A satirical essay is a work that is meant to poke fun at a particular subject. Some of the most common satirical essays are written about political candidates during an election. The author typically finds material that is interesting because of its level of irony. I like to think about Saturday Night Live’s Weekend Update as a satirical piece. The information presented is factual, but the facts are exaggerated and twisted in a way that invokes a sense of humor. Other examples of satirical work include editorial cartoons found in your local newspaper. [caption id=“attachment_130333” align=“aligncenter” width=“640”]

Choosing Your Satirical Topic

The first step, and the most important step, is choosing the right topic. It helps to choose a topic that you are interested in because it will be more fun to write, and the reader will pick up on your personal thoughts about the subject. The best subjects will be ones that other people can relate to. It is common to choose subjects that relate to current events in the media. Choosing something that others can identify with will either make them laugh or make them angry. Both of these responses indicate that you have done your job well. Make sure that the topic that you choose has a good sense of irony or humor. For example, it would be ironic for a company to advertise and market that it is “going green” if it is not doing its part in general recycling. This would be a great topic because it is relevant in today’s society and also brings insight to the issue in a sarcastic way.

What’s Your Point?

After choosing your topic, the next step is to figure out what point you are trying to make. The humor needs to be directed to an overall point, otherwise the essay will seem scattered and incomplete. Here are some things to consider: What do I think about my topic? How do I feel about the particular subject? What is ironic about the subject? How is this subject funny or absurd?

Your Audience

Once you have figured out what point you are trying to make, you must then take into account the audience that you are appealing to. Is this going to be read by other students in your high school English class? Would it be read by professionals in the field that you are commenting on? Who is your audience? Identifying your audience is important because your tone should be dependent upon the people that will be reading your essay. You must decide if you want a more casual or formal feel to your writing. Here are some questions to think about when identifying your audience.

  • Who is going to be reading this essay?
  • How would I phrase my point if I was telling it to a friend?
  • How would I write if it was being written for experts on the subject?
  • What is different about my casual writing style and formal writing style?

Putting it All Together

Now you have the framework: you have identified a topic, decided on a specific point about the topic, and assessed your audience. Now its time to start writing. Here are some tips to make your satire essay shine.

  • Use hyperbole to exaggerate points.
  • Strategically choose language that exaggerates the irony.
  • Add lots of humor.
  • The more sarcastic the better.
  • Stick to the facts.

Remember, writing a satirical essay can be fun. It is supposed to reflect your personal opinions on the matter at hand. Much like reflective essay writing , you have some creative freedom when writing a satire essay. Just be sure to back up your opinions with real facts about the subject. That’s what makes it effective - combining true concrete facts with a twist that influences readers to think a certain way. Satirical writing is very persuasive and opinionated, so when reading your final draft, make sure that you can feel a pull of persuasion. Image by  Thought Catalog  from  Pixabay

Home — Essay Types — Satire Essay

Satire Essay Examples

Satire essay topics and satire essay ideas are boundless, allowing for creative expression in various formats and lengths. However, it's crucial to maintain a delicate balance, ensuring that humor does not transform into rudeness. Satire should be a lighthearted, even nurturing approach to highlighting the absurd or inappropriate aspects of a subject. The ultimate goal is to shed light on why something is shameful or incorrect.

To achieve this, writers often employ literary devices such as irony, allegory, hyperbole, and metaphors to invite the audience to read between the lines. Satire frequently conveys a message different from its surface meaning, so it's important to choose words carefully when using irony. The essence of satire lies in its ability to provoke thought and laughter simultaneously.

As you brainstorm satirical essay ideas and satirical essay topics, consider subjects that can be approached with a touch of wit and humor, while still highlighting important issues or absurdities in society. By doing so, you can create thought-provoking and entertaining pieces that captivate your audience while delivering a meaningful commentary on the world around us.

Popular Topics for Satire Essays

Explore a diverse array of thought-provoking and humorous subjects that serve as perfect topics for satire essays. These topics offer ample material for crafting witty and insightful satirical pieces.

  • The Absurdity of Social Media Influencer Culture
  • The Perils of Modern Dating Apps
  • Corporate Jargon and Buzzword Overload
  • The Bizarre World of Celebrity Obsession
  • Analysis of The Television Show "The Office"
  • The Ridiculousness of Fashion Trends
  • Over-the-Top Fitness and Diet Fads
  • The Hilarity of Political Campaign Promises
  • The Exaggerated Culture of Political Correctness
  • The Comedic Side of Student Loan Debts
  • The Presentation of Products to Consumers in The Onion Magnasoles: Rhetorical Analysis"
  • The Quirks of Office Politics and Office Etiquette

Satire Topics for High School Students

When seeking inspiration for satire essay topics, high school students or anyone else can benefit from exploring satire essay samples.These examples of satire topics for high school students can provide valuable insights into effective satirical techniques and help generate fresh and engaging ideas.

Literature:

  • The Inexplicable Popularity of SparkNotes and CliffsNotes
  • The Dramatic Overanalysis of Shakespearean Sonnets in English Class
  • The Misadventures of Students Trying to Interpret Symbolism in Classic Novels
  • Comparing The Construction of Satire Through Naiveté
  • The Puzzling Fascination with Cliffhangers in Young Adult Fiction
  • The Chronicles of the Overused Book Report Clichés
  • The Hilarious World of High School Student Council Elections
  • The Absurdity of School Cafeteria Politics and Lunchtime Alliances
  • The Bizarre Election Promises Made by Class President Candidates
  • The Satirical Take on History Class and Revisionist History
  • The Comedy of Errors in Mock United Nations Debates
  • The Comedic Chronicle of Historical Misinterpretations in Textbooks
  • The Secret Lives of Historical Figures: A Satirical Exposé
  • The Time-Traveling Adventures of History Class: When Studying the Past Gets Weird
  • The Great Historical Conspiracy Theories: Aliens, Time Travelers, and Other Explanations
  • The Absurdity of Students Reenacting Historical Battles with Water Balloons

These satire topics provide a humorous take on various aspects of high school life, making them relatable and entertaining for high school students.

Remember, satire is a powerful tool for social commentary and humor, so it's essential to use it responsibly and thoughtfully. By staying within the bounds of humor and wit, you can create compelling satire essays that entertain and enlighten your audience without resorting to negativity or insult.

Writing a satirical essay presents a unique challenge that stands apart from other forms of writing. This genre requires not only a deep understanding of the subject matter but also a keen sense of humor and the ability to see the world through a critical, often ironic lens. Satirical essays aim to highlight the absurdities, hypocrisies, and flaws in society, politics, or human behavior, using humor as a tool to provoke thought and encourage change.

Writing a satirical essay stands in sharp contrast to drafting research or proposal essays, each distinguished by their unique objectives and stylistic approaches. While research essays are anchored in a thorough investigation, presenting findings with academic rigor, and proposal essays outline detailed plans for future projects or studies, satirical essays carve out a niche that relies on wit, irony, and humor to critique and reflect upon societal norms, policies, and human behaviors.

Unlike research essays, which aim to contribute new knowledge to a specific field through systematic inquiry and analysis, satirical essays use exaggeration and satire to underscore the absurdity and flaws within those very topics or in broader societal issues. Where proposal essays are structured to persuade or seek approval for initiatives with logical argumentation and evidence-based benefits, satirical essays skewer proposed solutions or existing conditions, highlighting their shortcomings or the ironic realities that underpin them.

The essence of a satirical essay lies in its ability to disguise critique within humor, making it a unique vehicle for social commentary. It challenges readers to question and reconsider the status quo, using laughter as a tool for reflection, rather than straightforward persuasion or the presentation of empirical research. This distinct difference sets satirical essays apart, making them not just a form of entertainment but a powerful medium for conveying complex critiques in an accessible and engaging manner.

What is a Satire Essay

Satire is a literary technique that employs humor, irony, and sarcasm to criticize or mock various aspects of society, politics, or human behavior. If you’re looking for inspiration for your satire essays , consider exploring satire essay examples and existing satire essays on various topics.

Contrary to popular belief, a satire essay is not about getting angry or bitter as you write about politics or some social issues that must be explained. The trick here is to explore existing satire essay topics that would help you come up with ideas. If you have never written satire in the past, you may be already provided with a topic to start with. In simple terms, a satire essay must criticize some subject by making it in a smart way where you talk about issues like procrastination or being too greedy. It has to be fun and not turn into a sort of bullying. Always show due respect as you structure things, as it will help you provide an excellent paper.

The Art and Power of Satire

Satire is a versatile and influential form of expression, frequently employed by writers and comedians to address serious issues indirectly. Let’s examine how it works, why it’s so popular, and explore some satire writing examples for a better understanding.

Understanding Satirical Elements

Satire typically utilizes the following elements:

  • Exaggeration : Satire often takes real-life situations and exaggerates them to absurd proportions. This technique draws attention to the flaws or absurdities of the subject.
  • Irony : Irony is a cornerstone of satire. It involves saying one thing but meaning another, creating a humorous contrast.
  • Sarcasm : The use of biting humor and cutting remarks is a trademark of satire. Sarcasm is a potent tool for satirists to convey their message.
  • Parody : Satire often mimics the style of its subject matter, creating a humorous imitation that highlights the subject’s flaws.

Satire has been a potent tool throughout history, addressing issues from politics to social norms. Its effectiveness lies in its ability to entertain and provoke thought simultaneously.

5 Satire Writing Examples

  • The “Smart” Home Assistant:   

In this satire piece, imagine a world where smart home assistants have become so intelligent that they start giving unsolicited advice, judging your life choices, and offering condescending remarks. It humorously highlights the overreliance on technology and the invasion of privacy in the digital age.

  • The “Healthy” Fast Food Chain:

Explore a fictional fast-food restaurant that claims to serve healthy alternatives, but in reality, their salads are drenched in more calories than a burger, and their smoothies are packed with sugar. This satire pokes fun at the deceptive marketing tactics used by some food establishments.

  • The “Eco-Friendly” Space Travel Company:

Imagine a future where space tourism companies claim to be eco-friendly while launching rockets that spew massive amounts of pollution into the atmosphere. This satirical piece highlights the hypocrisy of industries that prioritize profit over environmental concerns.

  • The “Innovative” Social Media Platform:

Create a satire of a fictional social media platform that constantly introduces new features, each more intrusive and time-consuming than the last. This piece satirizes the addictive nature of social media and the never-ending quest for user engagement.

  • The “Superhero” Government Agency:

Craft a story about a government agency tasked with solving everyday inconveniences rather than addressing real issues. This satire highlights the bureaucracy and inefficiency often associated with government institutions.

These satirical essay examples provide a glimpse into the world of satirical writing, where humor and wit are used to comment on various aspects of society, culture, and human behavior.

How to Start a Satire Essay

Speaking of satire essay structure , you must remember that it should resemble the rules of creative writing or narrative papers.

Here is what you can do as you are about to start with a satire essay:

  • Introduction with a strong sentence hook where you introduce a fictional person or a problem. 
  • Talk about why it’s bad and explain things by providing several examples that we all know well. 
  • Talk about how to avoid the problem by using some ideas why this or that is wrong. 
  • Tell a story or provide another example by making things fun. 
  • Provide a conclusion paragraph by explaining why something is wrong or pose a moral lesson. 

Remember, satire is all about using humor and irony to critique and comment on various aspects of society or human behavior. These prompts should inspire you to create a satirical essay that engages and amuses your readers while offering a unique perspective on the chosen topic. Explore free critical analysis essays to improve your understanding of satire and enhance your writing skills further

Prompts for a Satirical Essays

Social Media and Technology:

  •  The Social Media Obsession: Explore the absurdities of our society’s obsession with social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. How has it affected our lives, self-esteem, and relationships?
  • The Endless Quest for the Perfect Selfie: Explore the humorous side of our society’s obsession with taking the perfect selfie. How far are people willing to go for that flawless Instagram post?

Health and Wellness:

  • The Ridiculous World of Fad Diets: Satirize the never-ending cycle of fad diets and weight loss trends. Are these diets truly effective, or are they just empty promises?
  • The Fast-Food Frenzy: Take a humorous approach to the culture of fast food, addressing issues like overindulgence, health consequences, and the strange allure of the drive-thru.

Society and Cultural Trends:

  • The Culture of Political Correctness: Explore the concept of political correctness and how it sometimes goes to extremes, leading to hilariously awkward situations and language policing.
  • The Fantasy of Reality TV: Explore the surreal world of reality television and the way it blurs the line between real life and scripted entertainment. How does it shape our perceptions of reality?

How to Write a Satire Essay

Here are the steps to help you write a satire essay effectively:

Steps to Write an Satire Essay

Satire Essay Writing Checklist

Take a look at our checklist for a satire essay and explore our free examples of satire essays . It’s always much better to find out what good satire essay structure must be like!

  • You introduce your topic by explaining why a certain problem exists.
  • You provide at least one example of a problem in real-life or describe a fictional character.
  • Make sure that there is no anger or offense.
  • You keep your tone in a narrative and follow an explanatory way.
  • You provide a moral lesson in the final paragraph by explaining things as to “why and how”.
  • You edit and proofread your satire essay by checking for logical words and transitions between the paragraphs.

Remember that satire is a form of social commentary, and while it is humorous, it should still convey a message or critique a particular aspect of society or the subject you’re addressing. Use your creativity and wit to craft a compelling satire essay that effectively communicates your perspective while entertaining your readers. Think about exploring satire books in classic literature to see what modern subjects can be suitable. 

10 Free Satire Essay Examples

Funny satire essay examples.

Satire it’s a powerful form of expression that allows writers to poke fun at the quirks and absurdities of our world while delivering insightful social criticism. But satire doesn’t always have to be serious or solemn; it can be downright hilarious! These humorous satirical essay examples are crafted with the sole purpose of making you laugh out loud while offering a satirical take on various aspects of society, culture, and human behavior. 

Famous Satirical Essay Examples 

Famous satirical essay examples showcase the remarkable ability of satire to address serious issues indirectly. Through humor, irony, and sarcasm, these essays provide a lens through which we can examine the absurdities of society, politics, and human behavior. They invite us to question the status quo and see the world through a new and often amusing perspective

These topics provide a starting point for creating famous satirical essays that engage with timeless themes while offering fresh and humorous perspectives on contemporary issues.

Modern Satirical Essay Examples

Modern satirical essay examples capture the spirit of our digitally interconnected world. From social media antics to the challenges of remote work, these essays take a humorous look at the experiences and dilemmas of the 21st century. They highlight the ways technology, politics, and culture intersect in our daily lives

Satire essay examples like the ones mentioned above demonstrate how humor can be a powerful vehicle for social commentary. Satire’s ability to entertain while prompting critical thinking makes it a unique and valuable form of expression.

In conclusion, exploring free satire essays and satire essay examples can be both enlightening and entertaining. It reminds us of the power of humor in addressing serious issues and encourages us to view the world with a more critical eye. So, next time you come across a satire essay, remember that beneath the humor lies a deeper message waiting to be discovered.

Satire on Bullying

Bullying is a prevalent issue in society, especially among young people. It can have serious consequences for the victims, including emotional and psychological trauma. Satire, as a form of humor that uses irony and exaggeration to criticize and ridicule societal issues, can be a powerful…

Voltaire’s Use of Satire in Candide

Voltaire’s novel, Candide, is a classic example of satire. Through the use of wit, humor, and irony, Voltaire challenges the prevailing ideas of his time and criticizes the societal norms and institutions of the 18th century. This essay will explore how Voltaire uses satire in…

Religious Satire in Huck Finn

One of the most debated aspects of the novel is the use of religious satire, particularly in relation to Christianity. In this essay, we will explore the religious satire present in the novel and examine its significance in the context of the story. Huck’s Relationship…

Satirical Elements in WALL-E

WALL-E, a 2008 animated film by Pixar, is often celebrated for its heartwarming story and stunning visuals. However, beneath its surface, the film also contains a number of satirical elements that comment on modern society. Through its portrayal of consumerism, environmental degradation, and human reliance…

Get professional help in 5 minutes

boy-baner

What’s Wrong with Illegal Immigration: Satire

Illegal immigration is a topic that has been widely debated for decades. It refers to the act of entering a country without proper authorization or overstaying a visa. Illegal immigration is a significant issue, and it affects various aspects of society. From economics to security,…

The Satirical and Hopeful Message of Wall-E

Wall-E is a 2008 Pixar film that tells the story of a lonely robot that cleans up the trash-covered Earth while dreaming of finding love. Through its satirical portrayal of contemporary society, modern technology, and capitalism, Wall-E offers a thought-provoking commentary on the current state…

The High School Circus: A Satirical Perspective

High school, the place where young minds are nurtured, friendships are forged, and the foundations of adulthood are laid. Or at least, that’s what they want you to believe. In reality, high school is more like a three-ring circus where the clowns wear backpacks, the…

The Absurdity of Poverty: A Satirical Examination

Imagine a world where the richest 1% of the population holds more wealth than the bottom 90%. Oh wait, that’s not just imagination; that’s reality! In our modern society, poverty has become an art form, a masterpiece of absurdity that leaves us all scratching our…

The Absurdity and Hypocrisy of Dress Codes

One of the most common forms of dress codes is for students in primary and secondary schools. These dress codes often impose restrictions on clothing, such as prohibiting tank tops, shorts, or clothing with offensive or provocative language or imagery. The consequences for breaking the…

The Absurdities of Social Media Culture: A Satirical Reflection

The rise of social media has transformed the way we communicate, consume information, and interact with others. While social media platforms have undoubtedly opened up opportunities for connection and communication, they have also given rise to a new culture that is often absurd, superficial, and…

What is a satire essay?

Although you might have seen rude satirical essay examples, this kind of writing stands for polite fun. The idea of satire is to expose the moral sides of a topic. The most popular satire topics will revolve around politicians, absurd situations, human greed, or even Instagram stars. Most importantly, satire essays should not be insulting or angry in any case!

How to write a satire essay?

The most satire essay examples you will encounter will have a structure that starts with an engaging statement, a famous quote, or an anecdote. You may even tell a story you have seen in person by turning it into a narration. Choose funny satire topics with a light-hearted approach and keep things educational. It has to teach a good lesson!

What makes a satire essay effective?

A satire essay is a piece of writing that uses humor, irony, sarcasm, and exaggeration to criticize or mock a particular subject, such as societal issues, individuals, or institutions. The primary goal is to entertain and provoke thought while highlighting the flaws or absurdities of the subject.

What topics can I satirize in my essay?

You can satirize a wide range of topics, including social issues, politics, popular culture, trends, and human behavior. The key is to choose a subject that you find interesting and that has room for satire.

How do I come up with satirical ideas?

Observe the world around you, paying attention to absurdities, contradictions, and hypocrisy. Satirical ideas often arise from everyday situations and human behavior.

How do I know if my satire essay is successful?

A successful satire essay entertains the reader, makes them think, and effectively critiques the subject. If your essay achieves these goals, it can be considered successful.

The most popular topics for Satire Essay

  • Christopher Columbus
  • Homelessness
  • Illegal Immigration
  • Competitive Sports
  • Global Warming
  • Climate Change
  • School Uniform
  • Freedom of Speech
  • Donald Trump

Students also browse

  • Exploratory Essay
  • Analytical Essay
  • Profile Essay
  • Personal Narrative Essay
  • Problem Solution Essay
  • Proposal Essay
  • Compare and Contrast Essay
  • Autobiography Essays
  • Evaluation Essay
  • Exemplification Essays

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

  • Instructions Followed To The Letter
  • Deadlines Met At Every Stage
  • Unique And Plagiarism Free

how do you start a satire essay

Why Ivy League And Top Colleges Value Your Summer Job Experience

  • Share to Facebook
  • Share to Twitter
  • Share to Linkedin

High school student summer job

With summer break on the horizon, high school students across the country will soon start working summer jobs to earn extra money and build their resumes. While many students assume that scooping ice cream or walking dogs will contribute little to their college applicant profiles, summer jobs are what students make of them. Ivy League and other top schools want to admit students who are motivated self-starters, leaders in their communities, and industrious and conscientious members of society. A summer job—whether prestigious or seemingly insignificant—is often a student’s first foray into the professional world, offering them the opportunity to practice their networking acumen, develop teamwork and leadership skills, and build connections with potential recommenders for their college applications. Students who choose to coast and collect a paycheck may get little out of their summer jobs, but those who have Ivy League aspirations should take their summer work seriously—the colleges they apply to certainly will.

Here are five ways you can maximize your summer job to enhance your professional skills, develop networking opportunities, and level up your college admissions profile:

1. Start with a Professional Mindset

The first step to making the most of your summer job is adopting a professional mindset. Take your job—no matter how small it may seem—seriously and dedicate yourself to it. It may not be the vocation you ultimately wish to pursue, but focus on how the skills you can develop in your position will contribute to your future career goals. Show up on time, dress appropriately, and be enthusiastic about your tasks. Your attitude towards your job will not only impress your supervisors but also set a strong foundation for your professional reputation.

2. Network with Colleagues and Supervisors

Networking is not just for seasoned professionals; it’s a valuable skill for high school students. First and foremost, students should seek to make their presence known at their job rather than clocking in and out without building relationships. Take the time to learn about your managers’ career paths and seek their advice about how to navigate your own. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and show genuine interest in their experiences. These connections can provide valuable insights and potentially open doors for future opportunities.

Maintaining these relationships after your summer job has ended is just as important as building them in the first place. You never know how a connection may benefit you in the future as you build your resume, and recommenders with whom you have a longer history will offer great insights in your college letters of recommendation.

Matt Damon Movie Dud Falls Off Netflix Top 10 Global Chart After 1 Week

Ios 17.5.1: apple fixes frustrating iphone photos glitch, bezos reclaims world s 2nd richest title from musk as net worth tops 200 billion, 3. develop your professional skill set.

No matter what your summer job is, you will have opportunities to hone valuable skills that will serve you throughout your career. If you are working a job in which you interact with clients (whether retail, food industry, child or pet care), you can develop your professional persona: speaking politely with clients, learning how to handle negative feedback with grace, solving problems creatively, and representing the company well. If you’re in an internally facing role, you can be diligent about showing up on time, being a team player, communicating effectively with peers and superiors, and creating an organized and effective workflow.

4. Seek Opportunities for Growth

One of the keys to maximizing any professional opportunity is setting measurable goals and taking proactive steps toward reaching them. Particularly if you return to the same job for multiple summers (which you should consider in order to demonstrate commitment and build lasting professional connections), be proactive in seeking opportunities for growth—doing so will demonstrate initiative and a willingness to learn, qualities that are highly regarded by employers and college admissions officers alike. For example, if you are working in a retail store, offer to help with inventory management or marketing efforts. If you are in a food service job, learn about the business side of the restaurant industry and offer to take on extra responsibilities. By taking on these extra tasks, you can gain a broader understanding of the business and demonstrate your commitment to professional growth.

5. Reflect on Your Experiences

One of the best things high school students can do to maximize their summer job experience on college applications is to keep a journal or written log of their experiences. Writing down the responsibilities you had and lessons you learned will help to jog your memory when it comes time to compile your activities list, help you articulate the qualities and duties you would like your supervisor to highlight in a letter of recommendation, and could even provide inspiration for your personal or supplemental essays!

Christopher Rim

  • Editorial Standards
  • Reprints & Permissions

From 'Anora' to 'The Substance,' tales of beauty and its price galvanize Cannes

After the competition lineup at the Cannes Film Festival got a lackluster start last week, the festival was enlivened by a string of films both fleshy and carnal

CANNES, France -- CANNES, France (AP) — “Beauty is like war,” says Gary Oldman, in character, in Paolo Sorrentino’s “Parthenope.” “It opens doors.”

“Parthenope,” in which Oldman plays the author John Cheever, premiered Tuesday in Cannes. It's just one of the films at this year’s festival to consider beauty: its disruptive power, its cost and the sometimes dangerous portals it might pry ajar. After the competition lineup — the films vying for the Palme d’Or — got a lackluster start last week, Cannes was enlivened by a string of films both fleshy and carnal.

Foremost among them was Sean Baker’s “Anora,” in which Mikey Madison stars as a 23-year-old Russian American stripper in Brighton Beach-Coney Island section of Brooklyn. Baker, the director of “The Florida Project” and “Red Rocket,” has a keen eye for the way social stratification seeps into even the most intimate relationships of his protagonists.

“There’s a million stories to be told in the world of sex workers,” Baker told reporters Wednesday in Cannes. “It’s a livelihood, it’s a career, it’s a job and it’s one that should be respected. In my opinion, it should be decriminalized and not in any way regulated because it is a sex worker’s body and it is up to them to decide how they will use it in their livelihood.”

“Anora," which will be released later this year by Neon, the indie distributor with an enviable Palme d'Or record, has been arguably the breakout of this year's Cannes. It begins with writhing slow-motion bodies in the strip club where Anora (Madison) works. It’s there that “Ani” meets a young and goofy Russian client named Ivan (Mark Eidelstein) who quickly becomes enraptured and hires her to sleep with him for a week.

On a ketamine-induced Las Vegas escapade, they impulsively get married. Ivan is the son of a Russian oligarch so Ani thinks she’s hit the jackpot. But soon after they return, Ivan’s father’s loyal henchmen — themselves working-class underlings — arrive to secure an annulment. What follows is farcical and funny until it’s devastating, with a final act that expresses something tragic about transactional sex, and maybe even love.

It’s also a fierce and fiery tour-de-force performance by Madison, for whom Baker wrote the film, and who might just run away with Cannes’ best actress prize.

“What happened here?” asks the goon squad’s head honcho upon arriving at the helter-skelter scene after the frantic and barely successful entrapment of Ani.

“She happened,” one answers.

Coralie Fargeat’s “The Substance,” perhaps the most debated film of Cannes, is a blunt and gory body-horror satire about beauty standards. It, too, is a showcase for its lead actress. Demi Moore plays a middle-aged Hollywood star, Elisabeth Sparkle, who senses her status slipping. To rekindle her youth, she begins taking a mysterious serum that spawns a younger version of herself, played by Margaret Qualley.

The rub? They have to trade places every seven days. Any overage — getting too hooked on youth — will dearly cost her. What evolves is an extended and increasingly gruesome metaphor for a male-dominated movie industry (Dennis Quaid plays a misogynistic, over-the-top executive) and for the self-inflicted obsession of trying to stay superficially young. It's Botox as a monster movie.

“I don’t know any woman that doesn’t have an eating disorder or some other thing that they do that does violence to their bodies,” Fargeat told reporters in Cannes. “I think this violence is very extreme.”

“The Substance,” which was acquired for distribution by Mubi after its premiere, was divisive — hailed by some as an instant body-horror classic and derided by others for its hyper-stylized and ironically superficial characters. What’s more certain is that “The Substance” is a triumphant film for Moore, 61, who throws every bit of herself into the role, with seemingly none of her character's self-consciousness.

With its megawatt red-carpet pageants, the Cannes Film Festival, itself, is not immune to shining a harshly objectifying glare over all those that enter its cauldron of celebrity. (Elisabeth could easily be imagined having the same pangs of insecurity before coming here.) But it's part of the festival's grand contradictions: what it exalts inside its cinemas is often in direct opposition to all that's transpiring just down the Croisette.

Sorrentino, the Italian director of “The Great Beauty” and “The Hand of God,” has long been a regular in Cannes, and beauty has in many ways always been his primary subject. It's more explicitly so in “Parthenope,” which stars newcomer Celeste Dalla Porta as the title character, a woman of such beauty that helicopters hover above to get a closer look.

“Are you aware of the disruption your beauty causes?” asks Oldman's Cheever, a brief and melancholy acquaintance.

But while Sorrentino is clearly beguiled, too, his movie follows Parthenope on a more existential quest. She resists many of her suitors and instead devotes herself to academia and inner life. The definition of beauty in “Parthenope,” which A24 will release, continually broadens: to its Naples setting, to cinema, to something achingly soulful.

“During the journey I made in making this film, it was as if I had to get rid of a younger side of me, that carefree one,” said Porta, “and enter the world of grown-ups and focus on what I want to do in life.”

Follow AP Film Writer Jake Coyle at: http://twitter.com/jakecoyleAP

Trending Reader Picks

how do you start a satire essay

Smith suspected added obstruction effort by Trump

  • May 21, 4:50 PM

how do you start a satire essay

Trump deletes clip mentioning 'Unified Reich'

  • May 21, 9:27 AM

how do you start a satire essay

Climber falls from highest peak in North America

  • May 21, 3:29 AM

how do you start a satire essay

1 dead amid 'severe' turbulence on flight

  • May 21, 9:41 PM

how do you start a satire essay

Johnson disappointed with chaotic House meeting

  • May 17, 3:34 PM

ABC News Live

24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events

IMAGES

  1. How to Write a Satire Essay: Tips & Examples

    how do you start a satire essay

  2. How To Write A Satire Essay: Learn The Right Techniques To Cope With It

    how do you start a satire essay

  3. How to Write a Satire Essay: Tips & Examples

    how do you start a satire essay

  4. How To Write A Good Satire Article

    how do you start a satire essay

  5. How to Write a Satire Essay: Tips & Examples

    how do you start a satire essay

  6. 30+ Satire Essay Examples On Social Media The Latest

    how do you start a satire essay

VIDEO

  1. How is SAT essay written?

  2. Satire Essay: Template

  3. Satire

  4. How to Showcase Your Writing Skills on The SSAT Creative Essay Prompt

  5. Satire Examples & Critical Analysis in "Gulliver's Travels"

  6. when the audience doesn't get the joke

COMMENTS

  1. Guide to Writing a Satirical Essay

    Employ wit, wordplay, and puns to make your satirical essay entertaining and thought-provoking. 6. Keep it relevant: Ensure your satire remains relevant and relatable to your audience. Address current events or cultural phenomena that are familiar to your readers, as this will enhance the impact of your essay. 7.

  2. Satire Essay Made Easy: Your Step-by-Step Guide

    Before you begin making funny comments about society, let's talk about some easy tips to help you start. Writing a satire essay is all about being funny, using irony, and being a bit smart. If you need some assistance, you can ask us to help me do my essay. But for now, let's take a closer look at how you can improve your skills.

  3. How to Write a Satire Essay: Tips & Examples

    Choose an original and relevant topic. So you need to write a satire essay. The first step to take is to choose your topic. In some cases, your teacher or professor may assign a topic to you, but more often than not, you'd need to come up with a topic of your own. In this case, decide the area you want your essay to focus on.

  4. Satire Definition: How to Write Satire + Examples

    Now, satire isn't just senseless ribbing. Writing about something with sarcasm, irony, or condescension doesn't make something satirical. Nor does it count if you simply make fun of something: an essay that laughs at arson victims, for example, would just be cruelty. Rather, satire must criticize a specific action, belief, or institution.

  5. Writing Guide to Satire Essays

    A satire essay is a distinctive form of creative writing that employs irony, humor, and sarcasm to critique and illuminate the quirks and shortcomings of people and society. This genre is characterized by its distinct use of literary tools to critique and comment on societal norms, political landscapes, and cultural peculiarities.

  6. How To Write Satire

    Don't do that. When you write satire, a single, clear premise is essential. 2. Take a Strong Point of View. A common formula in satire and humor writing is this: pick a point-of-view for your narrator that is the opposite of what you (the author) really believe, then exaggerate this point of view.

  7. Full Guide: How to Write a satire Essay

    By learning how to write a satire essay, you can also improve your ability to use literary techniques such as irony. Types of Satire Essays. There are many types of satire essays, mainly differ in tone. A horatian satire, for example, uses light-hearted humor to expose social problems. In contrast, a Juvenalian satire uses an aggressive style ...

  8. How to Write a Satire Essay Step by Step

    Before you start composing a satire essay, it's critical to understand its essential prerequisites and rules. ... Top 4 Tips for Writing a Satire Essay. If you do not know how to compose a satire essay worthy of a good grade, then you might create content that makes you come off as rude. To avoid that, here are some satire essay tips that can ...

  9. Guide to Satire Essay, Topics and Examples

    This essay is a prime illustration of how to start a satire essay. Swift adopts a grave and sincere tone to advance an absurd proposition. This stark contrast between his tone and the ludicrousness of his proposal accentuates the absurdity of the situation he critiques. This strategic use of irony, where the true intent is veiled behind an ...

  10. How to Write a Satirical Essay

    Step 1. Choose a topic. Look for subject matter that is already ironic or ridiculous. Much like a caricature artist exaggerates the facial features of his subject, your goal is to bring out the absurdity in your topic. You might try looking in your Sunday paper at political cartoons to get ideas for subject matter.

  11. How to Write an Entertaining Satirical Essay

    Writing a satirical essay, especially the first time around, isn't easy. You feel passionate about the subject you're writing about, but you can't write about it in a straightforward way with statistics, anecdotes, or support from literature. For some students, this makes taking it too far very easy.

  12. What Is Satire? How to Use Satire in Literature, Pop Culture, and

    Satire is so prevalent in pop culture that most of us are already very familiar with it, even if we don't always realize it. Satire can be part of any work of culture, art or entertainment. It is an often-humorous way of poking fun at the powers that be. Sometimes, it is created with the goal to drive social change. Satire has a long history and it is as relevant today as it was in ancient Rome.

  13. How To Write A Satire Essay

    You can use satire in an essay to make the reader think about an issue in a new way or to make them question their opinions on the subject matter. Here are some tips for writing a satire essay: Make sure that your points are clear and concise; don't overcomplicate things by trying too hard to make them funny.

  14. What is Satire? Examples, Definition, and How to Write Satire

    The main difference between satire and parody is the message they're trying to convey to their audience. A parody emulates another work or body of work using exaggeration and humor. The purpose of a parody is to entertain. For example, Scary Movie is a parody of the horror movie genre, and Pride and Prejudice and Zombies is a parody of Jane ...

  15. Writing a Satire Essay: Guide and Examples

    First, find the right topic to make the subject of your essay. Second, use hyperbole and irony to point out the ridiculous aspects of the theme. You can check out examples of satirical papers to understand how these literary devices work. Finally, make the writing full of humor to drive your point home.

  16. Satire Writing Tips

    Looking for some satire writing tips? Satire is the use of irony, sarcasm and humor to critize or show the ignorance of people.

  17. Satire Essay: Writing Guide + Good Example

    Discover what a satire essay is and what difficulties you will face when getting started. Find out how much time people usually spend writing satirical essays. Learn the tips on how to write the great satire work quickly and effectively. Have a look at a good satire essay example for completing an A-grade satire essay.

  18. Satire Essay: Main Rules, Topics, Examples

    When writing a satire essay on any topics, it's good to point out the significant events of culture and politics. The most common ideas you should consider while writing: Brexit. Border Walls. Hillary Clinton. Mike Pence. Donald Trump. Barack Obama. Tim Kaine.

  19. 5 Ways to Write a Satire Essay

    1. Familiarize first how to write a satire essay. When writing a satire essay, it is important to know that you have a strong motive to address your own views and opinion over a specific issue to you care about. Even if it is opinionated in its form, you can put your own perspective of this certain issue and spin it to make it funny, don't ...

  20. Step-by-Step Guide: How To Write A Satire Essay

    Choosing a Topic for Your Satire Essay. The first step in writing a satire essay is selecting a topic. This can be the most challenging part, as you need to find a subject that is relevant, relatable, and offers scope for humor and criticism. Consider choosing a political or social issue that is well-known and has a broad reach.

  21. Tips and Tricks for Writing a Good Satirical Essay

    Here are some tips to make your satire essay shine. Use hyperbole to exaggerate points. Strategically choose language that exaggerates the irony. Add lots of humor. The more sarcastic the better. Stick to the facts. Remember, writing a satirical essay can be fun. It is supposed to reflect your personal opinions on the matter at hand.

  22. Free Satire Essay Examples. Best Topics, Titles GradesFixer

    These satirical essay examples provide a glimpse into the world of satirical writing, where humor and wit are used to comment on various aspects of society, culture, and human behavior. How to Start a Satire Essay. Speaking of satire essay structure, you must remember that it should resemble the rules of creative writing or narrative papers.

  23. Why Ivy League And Top Colleges Value Your Summer Job Experience

    5. Reflect on Your Experiences. One of the best things high school students can do to maximize their summer job experience on college applications is to keep a journal or written log of their ...

  24. From 'Anora' to 'The Substance,' tales of beauty and its price

    CANNES, France --. CANNES, France (AP) — "Beauty is like war," says Gary Oldman, in character, in Paolo Sorrentino's "Parthenope." "It opens doors.". "Parthenope," in which ...