The Menippean satire in the novel “The One Called Saddam Hussein Farhan” by Khudair Falih Al-Zaidi

Abstract

Menippean satire is a form of offensive satire that dates back to the third millennium BC, and is attributed to the philosopher (Menippe ben Gadar). This literary genre is characterized by a carnival spirit, flexibility, and the ability to change and develop with the political and cultural conditions of society. Its most important features include freedom from historical restrictions related to memories, freedom from traditions related to aspects of life, and focus on elements of humor, wild imagination, a spirit of adventure, the presence of scandalous, deviant and crazy scenes, and imaginary events that take place on wide roads. And dens of thieves, prisons, as well as desecration of the sacred and sanctification of the profane. The research seeks to identify these satirical aspects included in the novelistic discourse, which is characterised by a carnivalesque spirit and multiple voices.