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Addison wanted to correct society’s faults. He never took political sides. He believed writing could reform manners. He tried to improve taste, religion, and morality.
Why Addison Is a Social Satirist?
Addison is called a social satirist. The reason is that he wanted to improve society. He did not attack people directly. He pointed out faults with humor, not anger. He watched people's actions and showed their mistakes. He said in "The Spectator's Account of Himself" in his own words:
"Thus I live in the world rather as a Spectator of mankind..."
This line shows that Addison was an observer. He used his position to spot foolish habits. He wrote about human weakness, not to hurt but to help. He thought soft criticism worked best. His goal was not just to amuse but to reform with kindness.
Satirical Pictures of Everyday Life: Addison wrote about regular men and women. He visited coffee houses, markets, and clubs. He studied both the city and the countryside. He explained "The Spectator's Account of Himself,"
"I have made myself a speculative statesman, soldier, merchant, and artisan…"
This means Addison imagined himself in other people's shoes. He described all classes honestly. He noticed every group's common errors. His essays gently laughed at pride, laziness, and show-off habits. He wanted readers to recognize their faults. He turned these social types into subjects of polite mockery. By doing so, he held a mirror to society's habits.
Satire on Religion and Behavior: Addison’s satire also extended to religion and daily behaviour. He did not make fun of faith. He disliked empty religious actions. He wrote,
"Sunday clears away the rust of the whole week."
This line comes from "Sir Roger at Church." Addison showed how Sunday could refresh people's minds. But he also saw some people just acted religious. Sir Roger tried to guide his church. Addison praised good efforts but laughed at little errors. He wanted readers to be sincere, not just follow rituals. He mocked those who showed off during prayer. He used simple scenes to question deep ideas like hypocrisy, false modesty, and public behavior.
End of Sir Roger's Story: Addison ended some stories on a sad note. Addison's balance of humor and emotion made his work special. He wrote in "Death of Sir Roger,"
"Sir Roger de Coverley is dead."
This short sentence had feelings. Readers missed Sir Roger as if he were real. Addison showed that satire can be caring as well as funny. He did not mock his characters' troubles. Instead, he respected them. This approach taught readers sympathy. Through his kind tone, he improved society without cruelty. Sir Roger's death was gentle and quiet. Even in humour, he taught a moral lesson.
In termination, Addison's satire uses real people and events. His style was soft, and his aim was honest reform. He laughed at society's faults kindly, never with cruelty. His stories of Sir Roger and others teach even today. Addison's gentle humour and simple words made him a true social satirist.
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