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A Modest Proposal Analysis Essay Example

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A Modest Proposal Analysis Essay Example
“A Modest Proposal”

A troubled economist, Jonathan Swift, writes “A Modest Proposal” to sarcastically suggest his solution to Irelands economic struggles. Swift begins his writing rationally and factual; then, he continues to, not so modestly, propose that eating the poor populations children will solve all the kingdoms’ problems. The suggestion is narrated so nonchalantly. He enlightens his readers that selling the children of the poor to the richer will help provide nourishment, unburden mothers, and reduce the population of beggars. Swift moves on by suggesting rational, helpful ideas as if they are outlandish and inferior to his solution. This narration is attempting to expose the rash way the people have been dealing with social and economic problems. In addition, he is drawing attention to the problems in Ireland, including the numerous amount of underprivileged citizens. Swift starts his paper strong and with factual information. There is logic and reason in his proposal, at least, until the point he suggests selling and consuming children. His sarcasm makes “A Modest Proposal” a much stronger work that proves the ridiculous ideas some people have. The literary work is a successful satire; it causes the reader to look at the country’s’ problems and formulate a more achievable proposition. The way Swift subtlety introduces actual solutions to the reader is a sly and successful tactic. Overall, Swift’s work is a well written piece of satire that has managed to stand the test of time. Swift implements a variety of rhetorical to enhance his work and better reach his audience. First of all, the whole piece is an example of satire. The sarcasm swift uses to suggest that the child be “served” as a “wholesome food.” However, this sarcasm does draw attention to the actual issues of Ireland, but his proposal is made in a joking manner to raise awareness. The title of the article is a paradox. “A Modest Proposal” is hardly what Swift does; there is little

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