Content Covered: A Modest Proposal

Write a strong paragraph in response to the following question:
Why did Jonathan Swift write “A Modest Proposal”?
● Begin with a clear, concise topic sentence.
● Use textual evidence to justify your argument.
● Organize your ideas logically, maintain a formal style of writing, and follow the
conventions of standard written English.
● Wrap up your argument with a concluding sentence.

Jonathan Swift wrote "A Modest Proposal" as a satirical piece to critique the society and government of his time. The clear, concise topic sentence is that Jonathan Swift wrote "A Modest Proposal" to satirize the indifference and corruption of the ruling class towards the poor. Swift's use of irony and exaggeration supports this argument, as he proposes that the impoverished Irish should sell their children as food to the wealthy, suggesting that this is a reasonable and efficient solution to alleviate poverty. This shocking proposal highlights the dehumanization and exploitation of the lower class by those in power, exposing the societal injustice and moral decay present during Swift's era. In conclusion, Swift's purpose in writing "A Modest Proposal" was to provoke thought and evoke a response from his audience by showcasing the absurdity of the prevailing social and political systems.