A pragmatic study of political caricature

Abstract EN

Writing is the most common means of expression, but it is not the only one.

Caricatures use satirical images as a means of expressing opinions.

Caricatures as a word is derived from the Latin root Cairacate, which means: exaggeration and overloading something more than its capacity.

The political caricature sarcastically criticizes the political situation, as it is born from the womb of the suffering of the citizens.

This paper investigates the concept of political caricature through the lens of pragmatics.

Because caricatures conceal additional meaning beyond what they literally and visually show, it would be appropriate to investigate them from a pragmatic standpoint.

Twenty American political caricatures are dissected and examined through the lenses of Grice's inferential theory, Grice's maxims, speech act theory, humour, irony, and rhetoric.

According to the findings of the research, caricatures are composed of a variety of indirect speech acts such as an insult, a promise, blame, and inquiry, amongst others.

In addition, the chosen caricatures offer conclusive evidence that politicians routinely disregard the paramount importance of quality and sincerity in their language.

Exaggeration, a key component of caricature, is the preeminent tactic utilized in comedic writing and performance today.

The function of ludic is at the heart of irony.

In the end, the caricaturist is successful in convincing his audience through the use of pathos, ethos, and logos.