Question

Why does Swift aim his proposal at the most eminent people in society?

a) To ridicule and mock the upper class.
b) To gain their financial support for his proposal.
c) To provoke a public outcry and rebellion.
d) To provide a satirical perspective on society.

Answer 1

Jonathan Swift’s work targets the upper class to mock their indifference and provoke action through satire.

Step-by-step explanation:

Jonathan Swift's A Modest Proposal is directed at the most eminent people in society to provide a satirical perspective on society. This satirical essay aimed to highlight the indifference of the upper class to the plight of the poor in Ireland during the 18th century. Swift's use of stark and shocking satire was intended to shock his readers, particularly the wealthy and powerful, into recognizing and addressing the desperate conditions faced by the poor. By targeting the upper class, Swift intended both to mock their attitudes and to provoke thought and action to address socio-economic issues.