A Modest Proposal: A Critical Analysis Of The Problem Of Cannibalism

Cannibalism is a very taboo subject, it is illegal and viewed ethically wrong to most people and religions. This topic is problematic not only morally, but to societies which thrive on law and order, it would jeopardize all that a society depends on. Which is why it is so important to analyze a legitimate document that argues for cannibalism. Jonathan Swift’s argument “A Modest Proposal” takes the topic of cannibalism and argues that it would be practical at the time to solve the problem of poverty in Ireland. Jonathan Swift’s “A Modest Proposal” (1729), argues that in order to gain control of the overwhelming poverty and population problem in Ireland, a rational solution would be to turn to cannibalize the “bastard children” who have no means of survival. (Add in somewhere of how they would be eating poor kids who can’t be taken care of) Swift develops his argument by appealing to the reader with pathos, logos and ethos in many different ways. The authors purpose is to present his argument, for cannibalism in order to persuade the reader that it is a logical option that Ireland can take in the hopes to solve the poverty and economic problem. The relationship the author develops with the

Swift delivers his pathos by invoking sympathy, anger, and satire. His use of sympathy is really well especially when he is describing the scene of the town of Dublin which really makes you feel sympathetic for the poverty stricken children and mothers. This could be good or bad for swift because although we feel bad for them we may not feel that we may have to put them out of there misery. His use of anger towards lawmakers is very relatable to audience members which helps the author because we are agreeing with his emotions toward government figures. His use of satire adds a slight hint of comic relief to the sensitive topic of cannibalism. his satire can be found when he’s talking about the