Question

"So a year after Lent, the markets will be more glutted than usual. This is because the number

of Catholic infants is at least three times greater in this kingdom than that of Protestants. So
my plan will have the extra advantage of decreasing the number of Catholics among us."
39
What social problem is Swift satirizing in this passage?
Coverpopulation
Oreligious prejudice
economic inflation
Cabortion

Answer 1

The social problem that Jonathan Swift is satirizing in this passage is religious prejudice. In the passage, Swift is discussing a plan to sell Irish babies as food in order to address the issue of overpopulation and economic difficulties in Ireland. However, he mentions that the plan will have the "extra advantage" of decreasing the number of Catholics in Ireland, suggesting that the plan is motivated by religious prejudice against Catholics.Swift's satire in this passage is meant to expose and critique the religious prejudice and discrimination that was prevalent in 18th century Ireland. The passage highlights the callous and cruel nature of such prejudice, as it suggests that the lives and well-being of Irish children should be sacrificed in order to achieve a particular religious or political goal.