“A Modest Proposal” by Jonathan Swift: Questions

“A Modest Proposal”: Questions

“A Modest Proposal” by Jonathan Swift is a satirical essay written in 1729 that suggests a shocking solution to address the problem of overpopulation and poverty in Ireland. Swift proposes that poor families sell their infants to the wealthy as a source of income and sustenance. The essay employs irony and dark humor to criticize the British government’s exploitation of the Irish people and highlight the dehumanizing effects of economic policies. Swift’s proposal is an exaggerated critique of the callous attitudes towards the impoverished, challenging readers to reflect on the social and political issues of his time. Despite its seemingly outrageous premise, the essay serves as a powerful indictment of the prevailing socio-economic conditions in Ireland during the 18th century.

The Facts in “A Modest Proposal”

1. Premise and Satirical Assumption:
   • Built on the premise that Ireland is filled with impoverished beggars and their numerous children.
   • Suggests that consuming these children as dishes would alleviate the economic burden, fostering population control.
   • Assumes readers would find the idea reprehensible, serving as a satirical commentary.
2. Irony and Exploitation:
   • Highlights irony in the fact that the parents, who exploit the poor, maintain their titles, ensuring their children inherit the roles of landlords and rulers.
   • The use of titles is a means of satire, as the children of the poor are presumed to be consumed, eliminating competition for titles.
3. Societal Disregard for Exploitation:
   • Describes a society that disregards open exploitation, where the poor are overworked, leaving little for their begging children.
   • Illustrates the societal indifference towards the plight of the impoverished.
4. Religious and Sectarian Satire:
   • Notes the prevailing animosity between Catholics and Protestants during the time.
   • Satirizes the Protestants, particularly the landlords in the author’s parish, suggesting criticism against their actions.
5. Heartlessness and Modest Proposal:
   • Reflects on the heartlessness of the society, where the offer to consume children is presented as a “modest proposal.”
   • Suggests that making such an offer might be perceived as more acceptable than letting children die on the streets due to exploitation.

The Strategies: “A Modest Proposal”

1. Ironic Use of “Modest” in the Title:
   • The inclusion of the word “Modest” in the title introduces a layer of irony, as the proposed act of consuming dishes made from the flesh of children and wearing gloves crafted from their skin is anything but modest; it is an outrageous and horrifying suggestion, creating a powerful satirical effect.
2. Impact of Softening Language:
   • The use of softer language, such as “dishes” and “gloves,” serves to lessen the true gravity of the proposal to consume children’s flesh. This strategic choice in language aims to subtly dehumanize the subjects, prompting readers to perceive them as mere commodities akin to animals, possibly echoing the historical Irish consumption of pigs.
3. Depiction of Poor People and Cold-heartedness:
   • Describes the impoverished state of the Irish poor, framing them as a “saleable commodity” in economic terms. This economic lens satirically underscores the dehumanization of the poor.
   • Addresses the cold-heartedness of Protestants towards Catholics, emphasizing a reduction in the number of papists (Catholics). This suggestion arises in response to various proposals aimed at reducing beggars and poverty.
4. Tone of Seriousness and Satire:
   • Despite the seemingly serious tone, the overall effect is highly ironic and satirical. The concept of cooking and serving a child’s flesh as snacks is intentionally ironic and repulsive, adding a layer of cynicism to the narrative.
5. Purpose of Irony in Reaffirmation:
   • The author strategically uses irony to state that the proposal is made in the public interest rather than his personal interest. However, the tone employed in doing so reinforces the irony even more than the actual proposal, contributing to the overall satirical nature of the piece.

Works Cited: “A Modest Proposal”

Swift, Jonathan, and Leonard Baskin. A modest proposal. New York, NY: Grossman, 1969.

Relevant Questions about “A Modest Proposal”

1. Satirical Intent and Social Commentary:
   • How does Jonathan Swift employ satire in “A Modest Proposal” to comment on social, economic, or political issues of his time, and what specific aspects of society is he critiquing through this piece?
2. Audience Reaction and Literary Impact:
   • How did the contemporary audience respond to “A Modest Proposal,” and what impact did Swift aim to achieve with this piece? Additionally, how has the work been received and analyzed by literary scholars and critics over time?
3. Ethical and Moral Implications:
   • In “A Modest Proposal,” Swift presents a shocking and morally repugnant proposal. What is the author’s purpose in crafting such a disturbing narrative, and how does the use of this proposal contribute to the overall message or commentary within the work?