Satire in Swift's "A Modest Proposal"

Question 1

How does the title of "A Modest Proposal” indicate that Swift is writing a satire?

Revolt · Accepted Answer

Swift does not mean what he says when he calls his proposal “modest” or moderate; his proposal is actually extreme.

Question 2

Which statement best explains Swift’s use of rhetorical devices in this passage?

Revolt · Accepted Answer

Swift uses understatement and irony when he says his plan is “a little bordering on cruelty” to highlight how cruel the plan really is.

Question 3

What false premise does Swift rely on to build his argument in this passage?

Revolt · Accepted Answer

Mothers will be willing to sell their children.

Question 4

Which statement best describes Swift’s use of rhetorical devices in this passage?

Revolt · Accepted Answer

Swift uses verbal irony when he calls his friend a “patriot”; a true patriot would not suggest using Ireland’s children for food.

Satire in Swift's "A Modest Proposal" Answers