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In "A Modest Proposal," Jonathan Swift uses understatement to emphasize the severity of the poverty in Ireland, suggesting that the poor could "devour" their own children as a solution to their economic troubles. By presenting this horrific suggestion in a calm and rational manner, Swift's use of understatement brings attention to the dire circumstances faced by the Irish people and the failure of the English government to address their needs.

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Why is the modest proposal called modest?

Jonathan Swift's title is sarcastic, because "The Modest Proposal" is a satire of the conditions facing lower-class people in Ireland at the time it was written. His suggestion of eating children is outrageous; it is called "modest" sarcastically because the satire is meant to draw attention to the problem in Ireland through irony and exaggerations and understatements.


When was A Modest Proposal created?

"A Modest Proposal" was written by Jonathan Swift in 1729.


What are examples of ethos pathos logos in A Modest Proposal?

In "A Modest Proposal," some examples of ethos (appeal to ethics) include the author presenting himself as a rational and concerned individual. Examples of pathos (appeal to emotions) can be seen in the descriptions of the impoverished Irish population and the emotional plea for action. Lastly, examples of logos (appeal to logic) are present in the statistical data and economic arguments used to support the proposal.


What is the significance the title of A Modest Proposal?

The significance was that it was NOT a very modest proposal. Ireland was experiencing a horrible famine, and people were starving. The writer proposed an exaggerated solution to the problem- that the Irish should become cannibals, and eat their babies.


In A Modest Proposal by Jonathan Swift what problem does the speaker describe in the opening paragraphs of A Modest Proposal?

In the opening paragraphs of "A Modest Proposal," the speaker describes the dire poverty and overpopulation in Ireland, particularly among the Catholic families. He suggests that the surplus population of impoverished children could be a burden on society.

Related Questions

Why is the modest proposal called modest?

Jonathan Swift's title is sarcastic, because "The Modest Proposal" is a satire of the conditions facing lower-class people in Ireland at the time it was written. His suggestion of eating children is outrageous; it is called "modest" sarcastically because the satire is meant to draw attention to the problem in Ireland through irony and exaggerations and understatements.


When was A Modest Proposal created?

"A Modest Proposal" was written by Jonathan Swift in 1729.


What describes A Modest Proposal?

A Modest Proposal is best described as a juvenile satire.


What are examples of ethos pathos logos in A Modest Proposal?

In "A Modest Proposal," some examples of ethos (appeal to ethics) include the author presenting himself as a rational and concerned individual. Examples of pathos (appeal to emotions) can be seen in the descriptions of the impoverished Irish population and the emotional plea for action. Lastly, examples of logos (appeal to logic) are present in the statistical data and economic arguments used to support the proposal.


What does modest stand for in a modest proposal?

humble


When was A Modest Video Game Proposal created?

A Modest Video Game Proposal was created in 2005.


What language did Jonathan Swift use in a modest proposal?

Jonathan Swift wrote "A Modest Proposal" in English.


What is the genre of a modest proposal?

"A Modest Proposal" by Jonathan Swift is a satirical essay.


What actors and actresses appeared in A Modest Proposal - 2009?

The cast of A Modest Proposal - 2009 includes: Leah Braun as Abigaille


Is a modest proposal argumentative?

no it isn't


Which songs use understatements in them?

Many songs use understatements to convey subtle emotions or create contrasts. Examples include "I Can't Get No Satisfaction" by The Rolling Stones and "Ironic" by Alanis Morissette. Understatements can add depth to lyrics by understating or downplaying a situation or emotion.


Who wrote the modest proposal?

Jonathan Swift.