In A Modest Proposal, written in 1729, Swift describes the social conditions in Ireland. He explains that the inhabitants of this country are suffering from an increase in poverty, while the English benefit from their profit. Therefore, this brings economic complications to the Irish. One of the most noticeable problems the author perceives in society is the significant growth of beggars living in the streets. Nevertheless, he highlights, the real issue is that children are living in those poor conditions as well.
In order to solve this matter, the narrator brings forward a proposal which aims to make children “beneficial to the public”. He openly proffers to provide rich people from England with children’s meat. As unreasonable as this proposal
In order to solve this matter, the narrator brings forward a proposal which aims to make children “beneficial to the public”. He openly proffers to provide rich people from England with children’s meat. As unreasonable as this proposal