Discuss satire and irony in “The God of Small Things.”

Answer

Discuss satire and irony in “The God of Small Things.” [2015]

Arundhati Roy (1961-Present), in her famous novel “The God of Small Things” (1997), uses satire and irony to expose the false values of Indian society. She satirises caste, religion, politics, and social hypocrisy through humor and contrast. Her irony is soft but powerful, showing how people destroy love and truth while pretending to follow tradition. Through her clever tone, Roy criticises the cruelty and double standards that still rule modern Indian life.

Satire on the Caste System: Roy attacks the cruel caste system with deep irony. Velutha, the untouchable carpenter, is punished for loving Ammu, an upper-class woman. The narrator says,

 “Where the Love Laws lay down who should be loved. And how. And how much.” 

This line mocks social rules that control love. Roy shows how religion and morality are used to hide injustice. The satire lies in the fact that love becomes a crime, while cruelty becomes honour.

Irony of Politics and Power: The novel satirises Indian politics, especially the Communist movement in Kerala. Leaders like Comrade Pillai speak about equality but act selfishly. The narrator says, 

“It was a time when the unthinkable became thinkable.” 

This ironic tone shows how political ideals are turned into personal gain. Pillai talks about freedom but betrays Velutha to save himself. Roy uses irony to show how politics forgets human love and justice.

Satire on Religion and Morality: Religion in the novel is full of hypocrisy. Baby Kochamma joins a convent for love, not for faith. Later she becomes cruel and jealous. The narrator says, 

“When you hurt people, they begin to love you less.” 

This irony shows how religious people fail to love. Roy satirises those who use religion to control others. Their moral pride hides their sins. Through Baby Kochamma, Roy mocks false holiness and the emptiness of blind faith.

Irony of Modern Culture: