what was a major goal of the use of satire in enlightenment art and literature?

1 answer

A major goal of the use of satire in Enlightenment art and literature was to critique society, politics, and established norms, often targeting institutions such as the government, the church, and traditional social hierarchies. Satire aimed to provoke thought, encourage critical reflection, and stimulate discussions about reason, liberty, and human rights. By highlighting the absurdities and contradictions within society, Enlightenment satirists sought to inspire reform and promote the values of rationalism and individualism that characterized the period. Through humor and exaggeration, they effectively engaged audiences and made complex ideas more accessible, ultimately advocating for progress and change.