A Modest Proposal by Jonathan Swift
In A Modest Proposal, Jonathan Swift proposes a satirical solution to the poverty and overpopulation of Ireland in the early 1700s. He suggests that the poor Irish should sell their children as food to the wealthy. He argues that this would benefit the poor, as it would provide them with money, and it would benefit the wealthy, as it would provide them with a cheap and nutritious food source. He also argues that it would reduce the number of beggars and vagrants in the country, and that it would be a humane solution to the problem. He concludes by suggesting that the Irish government should implement his proposal.
By Jonathan Swift · First published 1729 · Genre: Satire, Political Writing, Philosophical Writing · 3,434 words
First lines
A Modest Proposal For preventing the children of poor people in Ireland, from being a burden on their parents or country, and for making them beneficial to the publick. by Dr. Jonathan Swift 1729
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A Modest Proposal is listed on Textopian as an essay by Jonathan Swift, dated 1729 CE.
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- Work type: Essay
- Author: Jonathan Swift
- Date: 1729 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Political Writing, Philosophical Writing, Humor Writing
- Length: 3,434 words
- Structure: 1 section, 35 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Satire — A Modest Proposal is a satirical essay written by Jonathan Swift in 1729. It is a biting social commentary on the poverty and economic struggles of the Irish people in the 18th century and the indifference of the wealthy classes towards them.
- Political Writing — A Modest Proposal is a political essay that critiques the British government's policies towards the Irish people. It is a direct attack on the government's lack of action to address the poverty and suffering of the Irish people.
- Philosophical Writing — A Modest Proposal is a philosophical essay that examines the ethical implications of the British government's policies towards the Irish people. It is a thought-provoking exploration of the moral implications of the government's inaction.
- Humor Writing — A Modest Proposal is a humorous essay that uses satire to make its points. It is a light-hearted look at the serious issues of poverty and economic inequality in 18th century Ireland.
Tags
18th century · English · Humor · Ireland · Political satire · Politics and government · Religious satire · Satirical Essay · age · annum · assured · beggars