Day: August 6, 2023

Catharsis: Literary Device

“I needed pain; I needed blood. Judge me if you want, but I’m talking about my own body. My own catharsis,” says Heather Durham.

Etymology of Catharsis

The term “catharsis” has its roots in ancient Greek philosophy. In Grecian, it is katharsis, means “purification” or “cleansing.” Aristotle, who used it to describe the emotional release experienced by an audience when watching a tragedy, introduced it in literature. In his opinion, it is a kind of purging or cleansing of emotions,  providing relief to the audience.

Meaning of Literary Device of Catharsis

The literal meanings of catharsis refer to a process of purification or cleansing.

  • In medical contexts, catharsis refers to the process of purging the body of harmful substances or toxins, typically through the use of laxatives or other treatments.
  • In psychological contexts, catharsis refers to the process of releasing pent-up emotions or tensions, often through the use of therapy or other forms of self-expression.
  • In literary and artistic contexts, catharsis describes the emotional release or sense of clarity an audience experiences when engaged in watching a tragedy.
Definition of Catharsis

Catharsis is a literary device that refers to the emotional release or sense of purging that an audience experiences when engaged in watching a tragedy. This release is often achieved through the use of strong emotions such as fear, pity, or sorrow. In other words, it refers to the emotional release a character or audience experiences.

Types of Catharsis

There are different types of catharsis in literature, including:

Type of CatharsisDefinitionExample from Literature
Tragic catharsisThis emotional release the audience  experiences at the end of a tragic play that brings them relief.The audience feels a catharsis after witnessing the downfall of the tragic hero in Shakespeare’s Macbeth.
Comic catharsisThis release of tension or stress through laughter or humor is often associated with comedy.The audience experiences it through laughter while reading Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
Romantic catharsisThis emotional release is experienced when the romantic tension between two characters is resolved.Readers feel catharsis when the star-crossed lovers find their happy ending in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.
Political catharsisThis emotional release results from literature or art addressing significant political or social issues.Readers experience catharsis when a dystopian novel like George Orwell’s 1984 offers hope for social change.
Common Examples of Catharsis
  1. Crying after a stressful day
  2. Venting to a friend
  3. Physical exercise
  4. Journaling or writing
  5. Scream therapy
  6. Creating art
  7. Watching emotional movies or listening to music
  8. Participating in support groups

Keep it in mind that it is a personal and subjective experience. What may be cathartic for one person may not necessarily be the same for another. It is important to find healthy and constructive outlets that work for you individually.

Literary Examples of Catharsis

Here are a few examples in plays starting from Oedipus by Sophocles.

  1. Oedipus Rex by Sophocles: In the play, Oedipus Rex experiences catharsis when he finally realizes that he has unknowingly fulfilled the prophecy of killing his father and marrying his mother. He blinds himself and exiles himself from the city in order to atone for his sins. The following quote highlights his realization and emotional release:

“Ah, God! It was true! All the prophecies! Now, O light, may I look on you for the last time! I, Oedipus, Oedipus, damned in his birth, in his marriage damned, damned in the blood he shed!” (Scene IV, Lines 1118-1124)

  1. A Doll’s House by Henrik Ibsen: In the play, the character of Nora experiences catharsis when she realizes that she has been living in a facade of a marriage and decides to leave her husband in order to find her own identity. The following quote highlights her emotional release and newfound sense of agency:

“I believe that before anything else I’m a human being — just as much as you are… or at any rate I shall try to become one. I know quite well that most people would agree with you, Torvald, and that you have warrant for it in books; but I can’t be satisfied any longer with what most people say, and with what’s in books. I must think things out for myself and try to understand them.” (Act 3)

  1. Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller: In the play, the character of Willy experiences catharsis when he finally accepts his failures and decides to commit suicide in order to provide for his family through his life insurance. The following quote highlights his realization and emotional release:

“Willy: I’ve got to get some seeds, right away. Nothing’s planted. I don’t have a thing in the ground.

Charley: What did you plant?

Willy: You understand me? Nothing’s planted. I don’t have a thing in the ground.” (Act II)

Suggested Readings
  1. Aristotle. Poetics. Translated by Malcolm Heath, Penguin Classics, 1996.
  2. Booth, Wayne C. The Rhetoric of Fiction. University of Chicago Press, 1983.
  3. Eagleton, Terry. Literary Theory: An Introduction. 3rd ed., University of Minnesota Press, 2008.
  4. Freud, Sigmund. The Interpretation of Dreams. Translated by James Strachey, Oxford University Press, 1999.
  5. Gilbert, Sandra M., and Susan Gubar. The Madwoman in the Attic: The Woman Writer and the Nineteenth-Century Literary Imagination. Yale University Press, 2000.
  6. Iser, Wolfgang. The Act of Reading: A Theory of Aesthetic Response. Johns Hopkins University Press, 1978.
More from Literary Devices:

Caricature: How to Create/Critique One

“The ones who constantly make us laugh are the hardest of friends to know – for comedians are the caricatures among us.”
Criss Jami

Introduction

Through exaggerated features and larger-than-life qualities, caricature in literature distorts reality to highlight the absurdity and essence of characters, often inviting humor or criticism. By augmenting or distorting or belittling distinctive traits and behaviors, caricature provides a satirical lens that both entertains and critiques social norms and human idiosyncrasies, inviting readers to think and see through underlying truths. This literary device masterfully navigates the realm between reality and imagination, leaving a lasting impression that challenges perceptions and provokes deeper contemplation.

Types of Caricature
TypeExplanationExample
Physical ExaggerationCaricatures that emphasize and exaggerate physical features or traits of a person or object for comedic or satirical effect.In The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain, the character of Jim, a runaway slave, is depicted with exaggerated lips and dialect, reflecting racial stereotypes prevalent at the time.
Behavioral ExaggerationCaricatures that amplify and exaggerate the behaviors, mannerisms, or actions of a character to create humor or convey a specific message.In The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde, the character of Lady Bracknell is portrayed as overly concerned with social status and excessively judgmental, employing exaggerated gestures and language to highlight her absurdity.
Stereotypical CaricatureCaricatures that rely on widely recognized stereotypes to portray certain groups, professions, or social types in an exaggerated or distorted manner.In To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, the character of Boo Radley is depicted as a reclusive figure with exaggerated rumors and stereotypes surrounding his behavior, illustrating the town’s prejudiced views and fear of the unknown.
Celebrity CaricatureCaricatures that capture and exaggerate the distinctive features, mannerisms, or personas of famous individuals, often for comedic or satirical purposes.In Animal Farm by George Orwell, the character of Napoleon, representing Joseph Stalin, is portrayed as a power-hungry dictator with exaggerated features and actions, satirizing Stalin’s leadership during the Russian Revolution.
Political CaricatureCaricatures that satirize political figures, exaggerating their physical attributes, actions, or ideologies to critique their policies, actions, or public personas.In Macbeth by William Shakespeare, the character of Macbeth is depicted as a ruthless and power-hungry leader, representing the dangers of unchecked ambition and political manipulation.
Social CaricatureCaricatures that highlight and exaggerate certain social behaviors, attitudes, or customs to provide a critical or humorous commentary on societal norms.In Gulliver’s Travels by Jonathan Swift, the inhabitants of the land of Lilliput are depicted as small and petty individuals, exaggerating their self-importance and trivial conflicts to satirize the absurdity of political and social conventions.
Character CaricatureCaricatures that portray fictional characters with exaggerated traits, whether physical, behavioral, or personality-related, to create comedic or satirical effects within a narrative.In Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, the character of Mr. Collins is depicted as a pompous and obsequious clergyman, whose exaggerated manners and self-importance provide comic relief and social critique.
Cultural CaricatureCaricatures that depict cultural symbols, icons, or traditions in an exaggerated or distorted manner, often for the purpose of humor or social critique.In One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez, the character of Aureliano Buendia represents the trope of the solitary, brooding Latin American revolutionary, exaggerating and satirizing the cultural and historical expectations placed upon such figures.
Historical CaricatureCaricatures that represent historical figures or events with exaggerated features or actions, aiming to provide commentary, entertainment, or insight into the historical context.In Richard III by William Shakespeare, the character of Richard III is portrayed with a hunchback and a withered arm, exaggerating his physical deformities to emphasize his villainous nature and provide insight into his historical portrayal.
Self-CaricatureCaricatures created by individuals to exaggerate their own features, traits, or behaviors for self-expression, amusement, or artistic purposes.In The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde, the titular character’s portrait ages and reveals his inner corruption while Dorian himself remains youthful and handsome, creating a self-caricature that reflects the moral decay hidden beneath his exterior.

These examples from literature demonstrate how caricatures are employed to portray various types of exaggerations and satirical commentary, adding depth and entertainment to the works.

How to Create Caricatures
  • Observe and Study the Subject: Carefully observe the subject you’re planning to depict. Study its features, characteristics, and nuances to capture its essence accurately.
  • Identify Distinctive Traits: Identify the unique and standout features of the subject. These distinctive traits will help make your representation recognizable and memorable.
  • Exaggerate and Simplify: While aiming for accuracy, consider exaggerating certain features or simplifying complex details. This can add a touch of uniqueness and enhance the overall visual impact.
  • Play with Proportions: Experiment with proportions to emphasize certain aspects of your subject. Altering proportions creatively can create visual interest and evoke specific emotions.
  • Emphasize Expressions and Gestures: Focus on capturing expressions and gestures, as these elements convey emotions and personality. A well-executed expression can bring your depiction to life.
  • Use Visual Symbols or Props: Incorporate symbols or props that are associated with the subject. These visual cues can provide context and add layers of meaning to your representation.
  • Maintain Recognizability: While adding creative elements, ensure that the subject remains recognizable. Balance between artistic interpretation and maintaining the core identity of the subject.
  • Consider Context and Purpose: Think about the intended context and purpose of your depiction. The style and level of detail might vary depending on whether it’s for personal art, storytelling, branding, etc.
  • Practice and Refine: Skill development comes with practice. Continuously refine your approach, techniques, and style by working on different subjects and receiving feedback.
  • Seek Feedback and Iteration: Share your work with others and be open to feedback. Constructive criticism can help you identify areas for improvement and iterate on your representation.

By following these steps, you can create compelling caricatures that effectively capture the essence of your subjects while adding humor, satire, or social commentary to your artwork.

Benefits of Using Caricatures
  • Show Visual Impact
  • Exaggeration for Emphasis
  • Create Humor and Entertainment
  • Used for Satire and Social Commentary
  • Used for Simplification and Symbolism
  • Used for Memorability and Branding
  • Show Artistic Expression and Style
  • Show Effective Communication
  • Show Cultural and Historical Significance
  • Show Engagement and Interaction
Literary Device of Caricature in Literary Theory
Type of CaricatureApplicable Literary TheoryExample of Critique
Physical ExaggerationNew Criticism Literary TheoryThe New Critics might analyze the physical exaggerations in a caricature to explore the tension between form and content, examining how the distortion of features contributes to the overall meaning and aesthetic impact of the work.
Behavioral ExaggerationReader-Response Literary TheoryFrom a reader-response perspective, the focus might be on how the exaggerated behaviors in a caricature elicit different interpretations and emotional responses from readers, highlighting the subjectivity of meaning-making and the role of reader engagement in shaping the caricature’s impact.
Stereotypical CaricaturePostcolonial Literary TheoryPostcolonial theorists may critique stereotypical caricatures by examining how they perpetuate harmful stereotypes, reinforce power imbalances, or marginalize certain social groups, leading to discussions about representation, cultural hegemony, and the effects of colonialism.
Celebrity CaricatureCelebrity StudiesScholars in celebrity studies might analyze celebrity caricatures to investigate the construction of fame, the commodification of celebrity identities, and the interplay between media representation and the public perception of famous individuals.
Political CaricatureCritical TheoryCritical theorists may critique political caricatures by examining how they challenge or reinforce dominant power structures, ideologies, or social norms, unraveling the complex relationship between art, politics, and social critique within the broader socio-political context.
Social CaricatureCultural Studies Literary TheoryCultural studies scholars might analyze social caricatures to explore how they reflect and challenge social norms, cultural values, and societal expectations, considering issues of identity, representation, and the negotiation of power within specific social contexts.
Character CaricaturePsychoanalytic Literary TheoryPsychoanalytic critics might analyze character caricatures to delve into the unconscious motivations, desires, or conflicts represented through the exaggeration of physical or behavioral traits, using concepts such as repression, sublimation, or the id, ego, and superego dynamics to interpret the symbolic meanings embedded in the caricature.
Cultural CaricaturePostmodernism Literary TheoryPostmodern theorists may critique cultural caricatures by exploring how they deconstruct, subvert, or challenge traditional notions of authenticity, identity, or cultural hierarchies, examining the interplay between pastiche, parody, and cultural appropriation within the context of postmodernity.
Historical CaricatureHistorical Criticism Literary TheoryHistorical critics may critique historical caricatures by examining how they reflect or distort historical events, figures, or ideologies, shedding light on the cultural and political climate of the time, and analyzing how the caricatures contribute to our understanding of history and historical narratives.
Self-CaricatureAutobiographical CriticismAutobiographical critics might analyze self-caricatures by examining how they function as acts of self-representation, self-reflection, or self-commentary, exploring the ways individuals construct and negotiate their identities through the exaggeration of their features, traits, or behaviors.

Please note that the examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and can be further developed or tailored based on specific literary works and the theories applied.

Suggested Readings
  1. Baudelaire, Charles. The Painter of Modern Life and Other Essays. Edited by Jonathan Mayne, Phaidon Press, 1995.
  2. Booth, Wayne C. The Rhetoric of Fiction. University of Chicago Press, 1983.
  3. Eco, Umberto. Travels in Hyperreality: Essays. Mariner Books, 1990.
  4. Hutcheon, Linda. Irony’s Edge: The Theory and Politics of Irony. Routledge, 1994.
  5. Lodge, David. The Art of Fiction. Vintage, 1992.
  6. Rosenblatt, Louise M. The Reader, the Text, the Poem: The Transactional Theory of the Literary Work. Southern Illinois University Press, 1994.

Caricature

The term, caricature, comes from the Italian word, caricatura. Its Italian root is a verb, caricare, meaning “to load” or “to exaggerate.”

Etymology of Caricature

The term, caricature, comes from the Italian word, caricatura. It means “an exaggerated portrayal.” Its Italian root is a verb, caricare, which means “to load” or “to exaggerate.”

This etymology reflects the essence of caricature as a form of art or illustration that exaggerates or distorts certain features or characteristics of a person, object, or situation purposefully.

Meanings of Caricature

Caricature as a literary device has various shades of meanings. It could be a portrayal of a figure or a representation of an event. It all depends on the use, shape, form, and even context.

  1. Exaggerated Portrayal: It refers to an exaggerated or distorted portrayal of someone or something, emphasizing prominent features or characteristics.
  2. Humorous Satire: Caricature means to satirize, using exaggeration or distortion to mock or ridicule individuals, stereotyping them on or about societal issues.
  3. Visual Representation: It means to create or make visual representations such as a drawing, painting, or cartoon in which distinct features are distorted for comedic or critical effect.
  4. Simplified Depiction: Caricatures are a simplification of complex subjects, condensing them into easily recognizable or iconic symbols, traits, or attributes.
  5. Expressive Commentary: It serves as a means of expressive commentary, allowing artists to convey their opinions, critique, or social and political messages through exaggerated and visually impactful representations.
  6. Caricature as Entertainment: Caricatures also mean entertainment, providing amusement, laughter, and lighthearted enjoyment through humorous or witty depictions.
  7. Caricature in Editorial Cartoons: Editorial cartoons also are used to convey political, social, or cultural commentary, using exaggerated visual representations to make a powerful statement.
Definition of Literary Device of Caricature

Caricature, as a literary device, involves the exaggerated portrayal of characters, objects, or situations to create a humorous or satirical effect. It involves accentuating distinctive features or traits, often to the point of absurdity, to make a pointed commentary on human behavior, societal norms, or cultural stereotypes. Their use adds depth and dimension to literature by employing vivid and exaggerated imagery to evoke laughter, critique, or provoke thought.

Common Examples of Caricatures
TypeMeaningExample
Political FiguresCaricatures of political figures satirize their physical attributes, mannerisms, or political ideologies, providing humorous commentary.For example, the caricature of a politician with an exaggerated nose and a pointing finger symbolizes their tendency to make accusatory statements.
CelebritiesCaricatures of celebrities exaggerate their distinctive features or personas, capturing recognizable traits in a humorous or satirical way.For example, the caricature of a famous actor with exaggerated facial expressions and a signature outfit portrays his/her well-known on-screen persona.
Social StereotypesThese caricatures depict exaggerated representations of social stereotypes, highlighting and criticizing biases or preconceptions.For example, the caricature of a snobbish aristocrat with a monocle, a top hat, and an air of superiority mocks the perceived elitism associated with the upper class.
Literary CharactersCaricatures in literature exaggerate characters to embody traits or quirks for comic effect or satirize specific types of individuals.For example, the caricature of a bumbling sidekick with oversized glasses and clumsy behavior provides comedic relief and highlights their role as a source of comic mishaps.
Cartoon CharactersMany cartoon characters themselves are caricatures, with exaggerated features or characteristics contributing to their comedic appeal.For example, the caricature of a cartoon character with an oversized head, bulging eyes, and exaggerated limbs adds to their humorous and expressive qualities.
Historical FiguresCaricatures of historical figures highlight key aspects of their personalities or actions through comical or exaggerated representations.For example, the caricature of a famous inventor with wild hair, a lab coat, and a mischievous smile emphasizes their eccentricity and innovative spirit.
Sports PersonalitiesCaricatures of sports personalities emphasize their physical attributes, gestures, or mannerisms, often for entertainment or fan art.For example, the caricature of a sports icon with a muscular physique, iconic pose, and a distinctive celebration move captures their athleticism and recognizable style.
AnimalsCaricatures of animals anthropomorphize them, exaggerating traits or behaviors to create humorous or relatable characters.For example, the caricature of a grumpy cat with an oversized frown, narrowed eyes, and crossed arms, humorously reflects the stereotype of a disgruntled feline.
Everyday PeopleCaricatures depict everyday people in exaggerated or comical ways, showcasing quirks, fashion styles, or idiosyncrasies for amusement.For example, the caricature of an ordinary person with a unique hairstyle, exaggerated clothing, and a funny facial expression highlights their distinct personality traits for comedic effect.
Political CartoonsPolitical cartoons employ caricatures to satirize political events, societal issues, or public figures, conveying powerful messages.For example, the caricature of a political figure engaged in a controversial act, depicted with exaggerated features and accompanied by a witty caption provides a satirical commentary on the issue at hand.

These examples demonstrate the wide range of subjects that can be caricatured, showcasing how this literary device is used to create humor, satire, or social critique in various forms of artistic expression.

Literary Examples of Caricatures
  1. Caricature: Bottom in A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Extract: QUINCE: Thou art as wise as thou art beautiful.

BOTTOM: Not so, neither. But if I had wit enough to get out of this wood, I have enough to serve mine own turn. (Act 3, Scene 1)

Explanation: Bottom, a character in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, is a caricature of an overconfident and pompous amateur actor. He constantly makes foolish and grandiose statements, showcasing his lack of self-awareness. His exaggerated behavior and inflated sense of importance create comedic moments and serve as a humorous critique of amateur actors who overestimate their talents.

Extract: SIR TOBY: Confine? I’ll confine myself no finer than I am. These clothes are good enough to drink in, and so be these boots too. An they be not, let them hang themselves in their own straps! (Act 1, Scene 5)

Explanation: Malvolio, a character in Twelfth Night, is a caricature of a prudish and self-righteous steward. He is depicted as overly formal and stern, often speaking in a pompous and self-important manner. His exaggerated puritanical behavior, such as his disdain for revelry and his ridiculous self-imposed restrictions, creates comedic moments and offers a satirical commentary on self-righteousness and the absurdity of rigid social conventions.

Extract: “She had always spoken to him as she would to any other gentleman; she made not the smallest objection to his joining in the society of the neighbourhood nor to his leaving his parish occasionally for a week or two to visit his relations.” (Chapter 56)

Explanation: Lady Catherine de Bourgh is a caricature of a haughty and overbearing aristocrat. She is portrayed as domineering, opinionated, and condescending towards those she considers beneath her. Her exaggerated sense of entitlement, intrusive nature, and disdain for social mobility serve as a satirical representation of the rigid class structure and snobbery prevalent in the society of the time.

Extract from the Novel: “Mr. Collins was not a sensible man, and the deficiency of nature had been but little assisted by education or society.” (Chapter 13)

Explanation: Mr. Collins is a caricature of an obsequious and pompous clergyman. He is depicted as lacking self-awareness, overly formal in his speech, and constantly seeking to please his social superiors. His exaggerated behavior, sycophantic nature, and misplaced pride offer a humorous critique of social climbing and the superficiality of certain societal norms in the novel.

Suggested Readings

  1. Sontag, Susan. Against Interpretation and Other Essays. Picador, 1966.
  2. Spivak, Gayatri Chakravorty and Sara Harsayam. The Post-Colonial Critic: Interviews, Strategies, Dialogues. Edited by Sarah Harasym, Routledge, 1990.
  3. Warren, Austin and Rene Wellek. Theory of Literature. University of Nebraska Press, 1956.
  4. Wimsatt, W. K., and Monroe C. Beardsley. The Verbal Icon: Studies in the Meaning of Poetry. University Press of Kentucky, 2011