Which term describes a humorous imitation in literary form?

Which term describes a humorous imitation in literary form?

• A. An epic
• B. A farce
• C. A parody
• D. A myth

Answer: (C)

Humorous imitation in literary form is called parody. Parody imitates the style, tone, and conventions of a real work or genre in order to amuse readers and often to critique or gently mock the original. It relies on recognizing and exaggerating familiar features—like a specific author’s phrasing, structure, or clichés—so the humor comes from the playful mimicry. This is different from an epic, which is a serious, extended narrative about heroic deeds; from a farce, which is broad, physical comedy built on improbable situations; and from a myth, which is a traditional story explaining beliefs or natural phenomena. Parody fits the description best because it uses imitation specifically to create humor.

Humorous imitation in literary form is called parody. Parody imitates the style, tone, and conventions of a real work or genre in order to amuse readers and often to critique or gently mock the original. It relies on recognizing and exaggerating familiar features—like a specific author’s phrasing, structure, or clichés—so the humor comes from the playful mimicry.

This is different from an epic, which is a serious, extended narrative about heroic deeds; from a farce, which is broad, physical comedy built on improbable situations; and from a myth, which is a traditional story explaining beliefs or natural phenomena. Parody fits the description best because it uses imitation specifically to create humor.