AP Language Period 4

October 21, 2016

Humorist Essay

            In today’s society, there are several ways that controversial topics are addressed. Some ways may be serious, while others are creative and humorous. Journalist Alain de Botton wrote in his book, Status Anxiety, that humorists and satirists have a large role in society. In agreement with de Botton, humorists serve an important role in society by shedding light to controversial topics use mockery, while still being socially acceptable.

            De Botton believed the humorist’s responsibility was to entertain while implying a certain message that cannot be said brusquely. This is true because many issues which require being tip- toed around can be addressed with comedic value. Creator of the adult animated sitcom “Family Guy”, Seth MacFarlane, uses twisted humor and satire to call attention to political, social, and world issues. MacFarlane’s satire mocks to hypocrisy and stupidity of stereotypical white culture. The main character Peter is most often seen with a beer in his hand, and saying outrageously inappropriate things to his wife and children. MacFarlane’s character acts as the epitome of the misogynistic and uneducated white man. In the show’s episode “You can’t do that on Television, Peter”, Peter’s wife complains that he doesn’t contribute to the family or play his part as a father. As he spends time with his youngest son, he becomes ridiculously infatuated with a children’s show that is soon to be canceled. He then dismisses himself from his chores and starts his own program for children, abandoning his tasks that a husband and father must fulfill. Episodes such as this one demonstrate the reality for many families where parenting and household duties are completely left for the women to do. The recurring theme of this show is how uneducated characters fail to realize their idiocy and continue to have this kind of behavior, which is relevant to our society today. Saturday Night Live is another program that entertains its viewers by joking about current events and celebrities. Its most recent skit was a reenactment of the debate between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton. Actor Alec Baldwin’s impersonation of Donald Trump was spot-on, with his huffing, puffing, and various hand gestures. The best joke of all was when the moderator asked Trump, “So you don’t care about the kids?” and he responded, “Anderson, I love the kids, okay I love them so much I’d marry them.” The writers of this skit cleverly mock Trump’s strange comments about children. One of the most controversial issues of 2016’s presidential election are the sexual harassment allegations made against Trump, as well as the lewd remarks he has made about his own daughter. An actor transforming himself into the person he intends to imitate sends a clearer message than simply speaking against the person. This Saturday Night Live skit expressed just how ridiculous the presidential election is and how appalling it is to believe this is the level our country has stooped to. 

            Although satire is primarily seen on television, there is a widespread use of it in other genres as well. Many authors and journalists have used it in their writing as well.