What literary technique ridicules a subject by treating something esteemed as trivial?

The literary technique that ridicules a subject by treating something esteemed as trivial is indeed burlesque. Burlesque is characterized by exaggeration and a comic treatment of a serious subject, often using a form that is distinctively lower than the subject matter it addresses. This technique allows an author to highlight the absurdity or flaws of the subject by contrasting its elevated status with a trivial or comical portrayal.

In contrast, while satire shares similarities with burlesque in that it often involves humor and ridicule, its primary purpose is to critique social institutions, behaviors, or ideas rather than simply trivializing an esteemed subject. Parody also involves imitation, often to mock or comment on the original work, but it may not necessarily trivialize the subject in the same manner that burlesque does. Comedy, on the other hand, encompasses a broad category of humorous writing or performance that may not always involve ridicule or trivialization of serious subjects.

Therefore, burlesque effectively captures the essence of ridiculing a subject through the presentation of something esteemed as trivial.