Name: A MODEST PROPOSAL – Jonathan Swift
Satirical Essay: mocks an individual, group or institution with the
purpose of provoking reform.
1. (a) What is Swift’s chief satirical target in “A Modest Proposal”?
(b) What changes in this target might Swift hope to produce?
2. (a) Why do you think Swift only gradually reveals the real nature of his “proposal” in the essay? (b) What is ironic, or
even misleading in the author’s use of the word “modest” to describe his proposal?
3. In the italicized passage toward the end of the essay, Swift lists a number of “other expedients” for dealing with
Ireland’s woes. Why do you think he abruptly dismisses all these suggestions in favor of his “modest proposal”?
4. Use the chart below to list four examples of Swift’s style— word choice, imagery, figurative language, and tone. Then,
indicate the way these examples contribute to the satire.
Examples
Contributions to the Satire
Word choice:
Imagery:
Figurative language:
Tone:
