Political satire in contemporary Maltese society : cartoons case study

Abstract

The objective of this study is to investigate the importance of political satirical cartoons in Malta’s contemporary society. It starts by providing an overview on mass media, definition of satire and political cartoons, point of views an critique by famous international cartoonists and artists, and the how they define satire. This study aims to assess the views of Maltese political cartoonists that deal with political cartoons almost everyday. It is going to provide an overview of past political satire followed by analysis of Maltese political cartoonists’ views in today’s world. The key findings are shown in chapter four of this study showing the outcome of interviews made to the stakeholders involved. The investigation mainly concludes that Maltese political cartoonists are able to draw cartoons within their demarcation lines, are against a law that regulates satire and that cartoons as a printed vehicle are diminishing with the passing of time. I think that this study will not actually give rise to any effective policy. Hence, more importance should be given to political cartoons and to appreciate more the importance of the works done by political cartoonists.