What is the purpose of "parody" in literature?

• A. To imitate a style for critique or entertainment
• B. To provide a serious analysis of a work
• C. To summarize a text in fewer words
• D. To create confusion among readers

Answer: (A)

The purpose of parody in literature is fundamentally to imitate a style, often in a humorous or exaggerated way, typically for the purposes of critique or entertainment. Parody takes existing works, styles, or genres and mimics them, highlighting their characteristics in an exaggerated manner. This approach allows authors to comment on the original work, drawing attention to its conventions, flaws, or cultural context, often leading to a deeper understanding of the subject being parodied.

Through parody, writers can entertain audiences while simultaneously inviting them to engage critically with the original material. The humor derived from parody often provokes thought about the original work and its relevance, ultimately enriching the reader's experience.