A Modest Proposal

Definition

A Modest Proposal is a satirical essay written by Jonathan Swift in 1729, which suggests that impoverished Irish might ease their economic troubles by selling their children as food to wealthy gentlemen and ladies. This outrageous suggestion is meant to shock the audience and draw attention to the dire social and economic conditions in Ireland, while simultaneously critiquing British policy and societal indifference towards the suffering of the Irish people.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jonathan Swift wrote A Modest Proposal in response to the severe poverty and starvation in Ireland during the early 18th century.
2. The essay employs an exaggerated proposal to highlight the absurdity of treating human lives as commodities, forcing readers to confront uncomfortable truths about society.
3. Swift uses a calm and rational tone throughout the essay, contrasting with the shocking nature of the proposal, which intensifies its satirical impact.
4. The piece became a powerful tool for social commentary, shedding light on British exploitation and neglect of Ireland during this period.
5. A Modest Proposal has remained a significant work in the study of satire, often taught for its innovative approach to social criticism.

Review Questions

• How does Swift's use of satire in A Modest Proposal effectively highlight the social issues of his time?
  • Swift's use of satire in A Modest Proposal effectively underscores the social issues of his time by presenting an outrageous solution to poverty that forces readers to confront their own indifference. The shocking suggestion of selling children as food is a hyperbolic critique of how society viewed the poor and their plight. By using a calm and rational tone, Swift juxtaposes the absurdity of his proposal against the harsh reality faced by impoverished Irish families, compelling readers to reflect on societal neglect.
• Analyze how irony plays a role in Swift's argument within A Modest Proposal.
  • Irony plays a crucial role in Swift's argument within A Modest Proposal by presenting a seemingly logical yet morally reprehensible solution to an urgent social problem. The juxtaposition of the serious tone with an absurd proposal creates an ironic distance that allows readers to recognize the moral outrage inherent in treating human lives as commodities. This irony not only critiques societal attitudes toward poverty but also exposes the failure of the ruling class to address the real issues faced by the Irish population.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of A Modest Proposal on modern literature and social commentary.
  • A Modest Proposal has had a lasting impact on modern literature and social commentary by setting a precedent for using satire as a means to address serious social issues. Swift's innovative approach influences contemporary writers who utilize similar techniques to challenge societal norms and provoke thought. The work continues to resonate today, reminding readers of the power of satire in advocating for change and prompting critical discussions around ethics and morality in governance and society.

Related terms

Satire: A genre of literature that uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize or mock individuals, institutions, or societal norms.

Irony: A literary technique where the intended meaning of words is different from their actual meaning, often highlighting contradictions in human behavior or societal issues.

Pamphlet: A brief printed work that discusses a specific topic, often used for propaganda or to promote social or political change.