Political satire

Political satire is a subgenre of general satire that specializes in making fun of politics and politicians. It usually takes advantage of free speech. Political satire, which makes fun of politics, is usually distinguished from political protest, which objects in what are typically stronger terms, but is usually not intended as funny, and political dissent. Satirists are sometimes cynics in relation to politics as a human activity, and do not always offer a constructive view.

In the twentieth century satire moved from print media (in cartoons as political cartoons with heavy caricature and exaggeration, and political magazines), and the parallel exposure of political scandals, to become also a type of performance, live or on television. Examples include musicians such as Tom Lehrer, live performance groups like The Capitol Steps, and public television and live performer Mark Russell.

Satirical political magazines

• Private Eye (UK)
• Le Canard Enchaîné (France)

Satirical political television

• That Was The Week That Was
• Spitting Image (UK)
• Les Guignols de l'Info (France)