Catch-22

In the novel Catch-22 by Joseph Heller, satire is used to create strange situations that describe war without the false glory and honor. Heller’s use of satire is directed toward the institutions that make up medicine, the military, and business. This is all taking place on the small island of Pianosa, located in the Mediterranean Sea, towards the end of World War II. It is mainly the struggle of one soldier, Yossarian, to survive the war.
Medicine is one area that is heavily satirized. It is seen as inexact and cruel. Heller tells of men in the squadron seeking refuge from the war in the hospital. An example of which is Yos...