American cartoons: parody and satire in South Park and The Simpsons

Abstract

The thesis focuses on the manner in which South Park and The Simpsons employ parody and satire while commenting on controversial issues, such as public education, homosexuality, race relations and illegal immigration, which are endlessly discussed by the American public. The thesis also tries to prove that despite the medium of animation and commercial success, the cartoons can be regarded as a reliable critique of contemporary America.