Which term refers to a literary work that aims to ridicule or mock its subject?

The term that refers to a literary work that aims to ridicule or mock its subject is indeed a parody. Parody is a form of satire that imitates a specific work or style with exaggeration or comedic effect, often to comment on or criticize the original subject. By mimicking the characteristics and style of the original work, parody draws attention to its flaws, absurdities, or quirks, making it a powerful tool for both humor and critique in literature.

Understanding parody involves recognizing its role in engaging with and reflecting upon cultural or social contexts. It often serves to entertain while sparking critical thought about the conventions it imitates. In contrast, the other terms listed represent different literary concepts: pathos involves evoking emotions, parenthetical refers to something inserted in parentheses, and paradox denotes a statement that contradicts itself but may reveal a deeper truth.