How is satire different from parody?

Satire and parody are distinct artistic forms, though they are often related and can overlap in practice.

Satire is a broad artistic form—manifesting in literature, drama, and other media—that uses ridicule, irony, or burlesque to censure human vices, follies, or social abuses. Its primary objective is often to expose foolishness or corruption, sometimes with the specific intent of inspiring social reform. Because it is a "protean" term, satire can function as a mocking spirit or tone that permeates various genres rather than being confined to a single structure.1

Parody, by contrast, is specifically an imitation of the style and manner of a particular writer or school of writers. While satire targets vices or shortcomings in society, parody focuses on the technical or stylistic conventions of a work or author. Parody is typically negative in intent, seeking to ridicule perceived weaknesses or overused conventions, though it can also serve as a form of literary criticism or even an expression of admiration.2

In short, while satire uses various methods—including parody—to criticize broader human or social issues, parody is defined by its mimicry of a specific style to highlight the flaws of that style or work.12