What does satire typically do in literature?

Satire is a literary technique that uses humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to criticize and expose the flaws, shortcomings, or vice in individuals, society, or institutions. By highlighting human misconduct, satire aims to provoke thought and encourage change by bringing attention to societal issues that may need reform. This critical lens often serves to entertain while simultaneously encouraging audiences to reflect on the absurdities and imperfections present in human behavior.

In contrast, the other choices propose different focuses that do not align with the primary function of satire. Celebrating human virtues or promoting idealism would suggest an uplifting approach rather than a critical one. Defending social norms implies a support for the status quo, which runs counter to satirical intent aimed at questioning and challenging these very norms. Thus, the core of satire lies in its role as a vehicle for critique, making the option centered on criticizing human misconduct the most accurate representation of its purpose in literature.