Final answer:
The subject of the question is English, found in high school curriculum, focusing on the use of wit, irony, and satire in the Comedy of Manners, specifically how they ridicule social norms and inspire critique of the aristocracy, as seen in Oscar Wilde's 'The Importance of Being Earnest.'
Step-by-step explanation:
The use of wit, irony, and satire to critique social mores is a prominent feature in the genre known as the Comedy of Manners. These elements are used to provide a humorous yet incisive examination of the behaviors and pretensions of the aristocracy, often with a tone that borders on satirical. In works like Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest, the audience is treated to a sharp and witty commentary on the absurdities of high society. Satire serves a dual purpose: it entertains by highlighting the ridiculous, and it provokes reflection on social norms and practices. Similarly, the Comedy of Manners illustrates the juxtaposition of wit and moral critique, exemplified in the character-led dramas of the 19th century.
Noted writers like Charles Dickens and Jonathan Swift have employed humor and satire in their works not only for comic relief but also as a means to scrutinize authority and inspire societal introspection. The optimal effect of satire is achieved when the reader is entertained by the humor while understanding the deeper message being conveyed. Satire should be distinguished from irony and parody, though all may be utilized to critically address social issues.