A Modest Proposal By Jonathan Swift

Jonathan Swift’s “A Modest proposal” is contrary to its title. The essay begins with Swift’s deep feeling of grief towards the penurious Irish people who have to beg to give their children food. Swift presents a solution that will make poor children a valuable part of the community. His compassion and seriousness changes when he proposes that the children be eaten by citizens. He argues that his idea will be a success because it will reduce the number of Paptists, improve the economy, make marriage more rewarding, give tenants and beggars money, and liberate Ireland from England. In certain cases, Swift uses testimonial evidence to prove that children make unique delicacies. For example, Swift mentions that an American friend guarantees children