“A Modest Proposal”
by Jonathan Swift

1. Logically, is Swift’s argument sound?  Why or why not?
2. What social and political conditions exist around Ireland during the writing of this essay?
3. What terms and methods are employed by Swift to de-humanize the poverty-stricken citizens of Ireland?
4. When does Swift find it appropriate to employ emotion in his essay?  Cite examples.
5.  How does Swift bait readers, encouraging them to read on?
6. What arguments does he present in favor of devouring Irish children?
7. I s Swift sincere in the proposition to eat offspring?  What passages support your opinion?
8. Citing examples, comment on the nature and reliability of Swift’s resources for this work.
9. Who is the intended audience for this work?  Why?
10. What are Swift’s actual solutions for the problems faced by the Irish?

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