Jonathan Swift's 'A Modest Proposal'

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What is 'A Modest Proposal'?

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A satirical essay written by Jonathan Swift in 1729 that suggests a shocking solution to poverty in Ireland by proposing the consumption of children.

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What social issues are addressed in 'A Modest Proposal'?

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Poverty, child labor, and the indifference of the ruling class towards the poor.

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Which government is criticized in 'A Modest Proposal'?

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The British government.

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What is the primary tone of 'A Modest Proposal'?

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Satirical and ironic.

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What is the purpose of the satire in 'A Modest Proposal'?

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To criticize and mock the indifference of the ruling class towards the poor and their inhumane solutions to poverty.

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What literary device is predominantly used in 'A Modest Proposal'?

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Satire.

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How does Swift use irony in 'A Modest Proposal'?

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He presents a shocking solution to poverty that is meant to highlight the absurdity of the ruling class's attitudes and policies.

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What is the effect of the shocking proposal in 'A Modest Proposal'?

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It forces readers to confront the severity of poverty and the lack of effective solutions from the government.

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What is the significance of the title 'A Modest Proposal'?

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The title is ironic; the proposal is anything but modest, as it suggests a horrific solution to a serious social issue.

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What audience is 'A Modest Proposal' aimed at?

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The wealthy and the ruling class of Britain.