When Words Do Not Mean What They Say - an Analysis of Swift's "Modest Proposal"

Jonathan Swifts, A Modest Proposal has become a classic example and much studied reverse of raillery throughout the years. It is interesting not only in the silliness of its sly innuendo, but it also acts as a storey lesson for the world to see the struggles of people of Ireland. What interests me most about this work is how Swift is able to show compassion through place setting in a work whose words would normally cushion and anger any sane person. It is interesting to see how his alert use of language and imagery manages to both sicken and realize the reviewer. His blast value grabs the c beful attention and scrutiny of the reader and, in doing so, accomplishes its goal, to awaken and alarm those who ignore the tragedy of Irelands plight. From the invasion Swift tries to establish, visually, an empathy between the reader and the impoverished Irish. It is a sad object to those, who walk through this great town, or hold out in the country, when they see the streets, the roads and cabbin-doors crowded with buggars of the female sex, followed by three, four, or six children, all in rags, and importuning every rider for an alms. These mothers instead of being able to work for their honest livelihood, are forced to employ all their m in stroling to beg sustenance for their helpless infants . . ..

(Swift, p. __) In having the reader picture the barbaric conditions, anguish and despair of Irelands poor, mainly women and children, he takes the raw and arise beggar term and warms and humanizes it. This image, common enough at that time for all readers to be aware of it, sets up the reader for shock and disdain at Swifts proposal. Swift, by warning that, I shall now therefore humbly propose my own thoughts, which I hope will not be liable to the least(prenominal) objection. is telling the reader to be ready for something that is likely to serve objection. He says this in a genteel voice that seems cold as it delivers his understatement. Least objection... If you want to get a full essay, order it on our website: Orderessay

If you want to get a full essay, wisit our page: write my essay .