Introduction

Satire is one of the most unique forms of literature that aims to ridicule or expose the vices, follies, or shortcomings of people, institutions, or society itself. It presents its message in a humorous, sarcastic, or ironic tone. In this article, we present to you the top 10 satirical works that you must read in your lifetime, which will make you ponder and even laugh out loud.

Gulliver’s Travels by Jonathan Swift

First on our list is a novel that has stood the test of time. This iconic book by Jonathan Swift narrates the adventures of Lemuel Gulliver, a surgeon turned sea captain, who explores strange lands where he encounters bizarre species, in what is now considered one of the finest examples of literary satire.

Catch-22 by Joseph Heller

An immensely popular novel that originated the phrase “catch-22,” now a common phrase in the English language. Set during World War II, the book humorously critiques the military mentality and bureaucracy utilizing nonsensical logic and absurd humor.

The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde

This renowned play by the master of wit, Oscar Wilde, pokes fun at the societal conventions of Victorian era Britain. Constantly witty, charmingly absurdist, this classic work amazes us with its gentle jabs at human nature and societal norms.

Animal Farm by George Orwell

One of the most unforgettable novellas based on a dystopian society where animals take over a farm that results in an almost perfect socialist system until it eventually succumbs to corruption and tyranny. The book exposed the failures of the Communist but speaks to universal themes about power and manipulation.

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

A satire-filled science fiction novel that exhibits cheerful cynicism and deconstructs science fiction conventions such as intergalactic politics using Douglas’s unique brand of comic absurdist humor.

Candide by Voltaire

This classic French novel caused a sensation when it was published amidst controversies. It was seen as controversial due to the highly scathing depiction of the society of its time it satirizes elements of Enlightenment philosophy such as Leibnizian optimism and the resultant causes of human suffering in the world.

The Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole

This Pulitzer Prize winning American novel shows us the satirical hero Ignatius Reilly, constantly reeling between self-loathing and self-glorification, as a way to critique aspects of the intellectual community of the early 1960’s, including the New Orleans police force, universities, and even a strip club disguised as a pseudo-authentic medieval fairground.

The Discworld Series by Terry Pratchett

A 41 novel series that utilizes brilliance, and exquisite prose to skewer conventions in economics, politics, sociology, and the micro-engineering of the capitalism system via a worldview of humorous, countless fantasies offers countless debates on institution of society that you can’t have under normal circumstances.

Nineteen Eighty-Four by George Orwell

One of the greatest novels ever written, filled with insightful commentary intermingled with small patches of exaggeration, an exploration in the ravages of totalitarianism and its all-encompassing grip on society.