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Use Of Irony In A Modest Proposal

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A Modest Proposal is a satirical piece written by Jonathan Swift which uses the idea of satire to convey a message. His use of this literary device exaggerates the main message to comment on both the social and political hardships of overpopulation and poverty with Irish immigrants. There are multiple examples of irony that Swift uses, but these are about four of these pieces of evidence within the text that effective show his mastery of this literary device.
The first example of Irony is within the title itself. At a first glance, the term a modest proposal gives the reader the initial idea to think that this piece of work will be lighthearted and humble. But it is more outlandish and grotesque, by making an ironic claim to cannibalism to stabilize the economy and reduce the overpopulation issue. But this is not exactly what Jonathan Swift’s claim is about. This “proposal” can help people see the reality of the issue and figure out how to resolve the matter.
The second example of Irony is within this statement in the text. “I rather recommend buying the children alive and dressing them hot from the knife, as we do roasting pigs.” Swift compares the Irish to animals, and society should not treat them in such a manner; as animals instead of living human beings. Jonathan Swift uses this type of …show more content…
Overall, the examples used are overstated to the point that the reader may need to reread the text to fully understand it. With this use of satire, he can disturb the reader into paying attention. But this use of hyperbole does not make his statement true, and in turn ends up meaning the complete opposite. The value of irony in this argument causes the reader to recognize the irrationality of his suggestions and reevaluate what would be an acceptable approach to relinquish these

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