Stereotypes In Bill Cosby's On Prejudice
The word "bigot" is a powerful word. It is a word that many feel to be of the utmost offense, and yet, by definition, it is a person obstinately or intolerantly devoted to his or her own opinions and prejudices. With this in mind, and human nature's impeccable ability to draw stereotypes for every type of person, can't we all be considered "bigots?" In Bill Cosby's short satire, "On Prejudice," this issue is concisely addressed and brought to it's knees through his use of sarcasm, and an ability to corner any stereotype by just simply bringing it to a clear, succinct truth. While many balked at the idea of racial prejudice and stereotypes during the 1970's, Cosby approached it with honesty and candor. His use of vulgar words, diffident body
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At first notice he employs a feeling of simple impersonation and innocent humor. However, after listening, one begins to realize that his impersonation goes much deeper. Secondary thoughts begin to surface and innocent humor turns into harsh ridicule and mockery. He speaks on old people, children, Jews, Irish, African Americans (which he refers to as "niggers"), and Italians. Each group is addressed as the scum of the earth. He takes stereotypes and prejudices and gives them a voice. His phrases and word usage have a bold honesty to them. He consistently speaks of making groups "just go away." But he abstains from his harsh comments by repeating that they would not have to leave by blood shed. This effectively adds to the arrogance of his character and truly reveals the power of satire. Another action he consistently refers to is spitting on certain groups. He sets up why he dislikes each group. Then, whether it is the drunken Irish, Italian criminals, or slow old people, he then follows with stating that if he were to see these groups he would just "spit on them." This is reintroduced over and over again to remind the audience that they are dealing with an obnoxious person. This technique also reinforces the arrogance of his character in that it shows that he lacks the will to come up with intelligent solutions or justification for his
At first notice he employs a feeling of simple impersonation and innocent humor. However, after listening, one begins to realize that his impersonation goes much deeper. Secondary thoughts begin to surface and innocent humor turns into harsh ridicule and mockery. He speaks on old people, children, Jews, Irish, African Americans (which he refers to as "niggers"), and Italians. Each group is addressed as the scum of the earth. He takes stereotypes and prejudices and gives them a voice. His phrases and word usage have a bold honesty to them. He consistently speaks of making groups "just go away." But he abstains from his harsh comments by repeating that they would not have to leave by blood shed. This effectively adds to the arrogance of his character and truly reveals the power of satire. Another action he consistently refers to is spitting on certain groups. He sets up why he dislikes each group. Then, whether it is the drunken Irish, Italian criminals, or slow old people, he then follows with stating that if he were to see these groups he would just "spit on them." This is reintroduced over and over again to remind the audience that they are dealing with an obnoxious person. This technique also reinforces the arrogance of his character in that it shows that he lacks the will to come up with intelligent solutions or justification for his