A Modest Proposal
Jan 2020 · Otbebookpublishing
Ebook
16
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About this ebook
A Modest Proposal For preventing the Children of Poor People From being a Burthen to Their Parents or Country, and For making them Beneficial to the Publick,[1] commonly referred to as A Modest Proposal, is a Juvenalian satirical essay written and published anonymously by Jonathan Swift in 1729. The essay suggests that the impoverished Irish might ease their economic troubles by selling their children as food to rich gentlemen and ladies. This satirical hyperbole mocked heartless attitudes towards the poor, as well as British policy toward the Irish in general. In English writing, the phrase "a modest proposal" is now conventionally an allusion to this style of straight-faced satire.
About the author
Jonathan Swift (1667-1745) was an Anglo-Irish satirist, essayist, and clergyman, whose sharp wit and keen observations on society have left an indelible mark on literature. Born in Dublin, Swift was educated at Trinity College before moving to England, where he became deeply involved in the political and literary circles of his time. Swift's career was marked by his dual roles as a writer and a cleric, becoming the Dean of St. Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin.Swift's literary contributions are vast and varied, encompassing poetry, essays, and political pamphlets. His satirical style, characterized by irony and biting humor, was revolutionary, challenging the status quo and exposing the absurdities of contemporary society. Swift's works often critiqued the British government and its policies, particularly those affecting Ireland, earning him both acclaim and controversy.One of Swift's most notable controversies was his fierce opposition to the Whig party, which he believed was corrupt and detrimental to the welfare of the people. His political pamphlets, written under pseudonyms, were instrumental in swaying public opinion and showcased his mastery of rhetoric and satire.Swift's influence on contemporary writers is profound. His innovative use of satire paved the way for future generations of satirists, including George Orwell and Aldous Huxley. Swift's ability to blend humor with serious social commentary continues to resonate, making his works timeless.Beyond his literary achievements, Swift was a champion of social justice, advocating for the rights of the Irish people and critiquing the exploitation and oppression they faced. His legacy as a writer and social critic endures, offering modern readers a powerful lens through which to view the complexities of human nature and society.
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