A Modest Proposal

Definition

A Modest Proposal is a satirical essay written by Jonathan Swift in 1729, advocating for the consumption of Irish infants as a solution to poverty and overpopulation in Ireland. This work cleverly uses extreme hyperbole and irony to criticize British policy and social indifference toward the suffering of the Irish population, highlighting the desperate conditions faced by the poor while mocking the lack of empathy from the wealthy classes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Swift's essay is written in a formal tone that contrasts sharply with its shocking content, making it more effective as a satire.
2. The proposal suggests that impoverished Irish parents could sell their children as food, which serves to highlight the extreme desperation caused by British exploitation.
3. This work critiques not only British colonialism but also the apathy of the wealthy Irish elite towards the plight of the lower classes.
4. Swift uses statistical data and logical arguments in his proposal to mock the rationality often found in economic arguments of his time.
5. The lasting impact of A Modest Proposal lies in its ability to provoke thought and discussion about social issues through its shocking premise and masterful use of satire.

Review Questions

• How does Jonathan Swift utilize satire in A Modest Proposal to convey his message about social inequality?
  • In A Modest Proposal, Jonathan Swift employs satire by presenting an outrageous solution to poverty—suggesting that poor Irish families should sell their children as food. This hyperbolic suggestion serves to underscore the severe neglect faced by the impoverished while simultaneously critiquing the detached attitudes of the wealthy. Through this extreme irony, Swift draws attention to societal issues and compels readers to reconsider their views on poverty and responsibility.
• Discuss how irony plays a crucial role in enhancing the effectiveness of A Modest Proposal's argument.
  • Irony is central to A Modest Proposal's effectiveness as it contrasts Swift's serious tone with his absurd suggestion of eating babies. By articulating his proposal in a logical and rational manner, Swift ironically reveals the callousness of both British policy and Irish elite indifference. This sharp contrast forces readers to confront the harsh realities faced by the poor while showcasing the moral bankruptcy of those who ignore their plight.
• Evaluate the implications of Swift's A Modest Proposal on contemporary discussions about social justice and economic disparity.
  • A Modest Proposal has profound implications for modern discussions surrounding social justice and economic disparity, as it highlights how extreme measures are often proposed in response to systemic failures. By forcing readers to grapple with an outrageous concept, Swift compels a reflection on current social policies and their impact on marginalized communities. The work encourages critical examination of contemporary issues like wealth inequality and governmental neglect, demonstrating that satire can inspire real change by drawing attention to societal flaws.

Related terms

Satire:

A literary genre that uses humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to criticize or mock societal norms, politics, or individuals.

Irony:

A rhetorical device where the intended meaning is opposite to the literal meaning, often used in satire to create a stark contrast between reality and appearance.

Hyperbole:

An exaggerated statement or claim not meant to be taken literally, often employed for emphasis or comedic effect in literature.