[Saurreg]

So if we go by the definition given to us by tar-ancalime, then a parody is a work that is based on or derived from another existing work or theme. That would mean that provocating spoofs are usually satires just as Bêthberry had claimed. Ah, now that makes things clearer.

I agree with Fordim that one must not simply dismiss parodies or satires if they portray actual persons. It may not be just a case of being disrespectful and generating self-satisfaction through another person's discomfort or shortcomings. If we go by current forum definitions, than many a political and social commentators throughout the ages have used satires to communicate the ideas and observations when it was impossible to do so directly. From mythical Aesop to Thackeray and from Thackeray to Orwell, all these writers have written satires in one form or another to illustrate the ills of humanity and society. Such works carry great merit and are welcomed in most reading circles for the message they try to convey. Today's parodies and satires may lack the sense of urgency, importance or even relevance compared to the seminal works of old, but it will not harm to just try to read them and think on both sides before passing judgement.

Good thread Estelyn Telcontar