“Ivan is an incredibly strong fellow," remarked the general, "but he has the misfortune to be deaf and dumb. A simple fellow, but, I'm afraid, like all his race, a bit of a savage.”
“Is he Russian?”
“He is a Cossack," said the general, and his smile showed red lips and pointed teeth.
“So am I.
“Come,” he said, “we shouldn't be chatting here. We can talk later. Now you want clothes, food, rest. You shall have them. This is a most restful spot.”
Use the paragraphs to answer the question. Why are these paragraphs an example of satire?
1 answer
These paragraphs are an example of satire because they use humor and irony to mock and criticize societal attitudes towards people from different races or cultural backgrounds. The general's remarks about Ivan being "deaf and dumb" and "a bit of a savage" reflect a prejudiced and stereotypical view of individuals belonging to Ivan's race. The general's smile showing "red lips and pointed teeth" further emphasizes the portrayal of Ivan's race in a demeaning and dehumanizing manner. This satirical portrayal highlights the absurdity and ignorance of such discriminatory attitudes. Additionally, the sarcastic remark of the general that the protagonist is also a Cossack further satirizes the general's assumptions about the protagonist based on his race.