Table of ContentsIntroductionThe Proposition and IncongruityIncongruity in Language and ToneExaggerated Logic and IncongruityIncongruity in StructureAnalogies and MetaphorsConclusionIntroduction"A Modest Proposal" by Jonathan Swift is a satirical essay that presents a shocking solution to the problem of poverty in Ireland. Published in 1729, it proposed that poor Irish people sell their children as food to the rich, suggesting that this would not only reduce poverty but also benefit the economy. Swift's use of incongruity in this essay serves to highlight the absurdity of society's indifference to the suffering of the poor. Through a combination of biting irony, exaggerated logic, and a masterful display of satire, Swift forces her readers to confront the moral bankruptcy of their own society. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay The Proposition and the Incongruity The essay begins innocently enough, with the author proposing a seemingly simple solution to the problem of poverty. However, as the proposition unfolds, it becomes clear that Swift is using the technique of incongruity to expose the shocking reality of the situation. He suggests that the Irish should sell their one-year-old children as food, arguing that this would not only provide a source of income for the poor, but would also reduce surplus population and improve the overall health of the nation. ToneSwift's use of incongruity is evident in its choice of language and tone. He adopts a detached and rational tone, using statistics and economic arguments to support his proposition. This juxtaposition of cold logic and gruesome subject matter creates a stark contrast that forces the reader to question their own moral compass. By presenting such a repugnant idea in a calm and rational manner, Swift highlights the absurdity of a society that values ​​economic gain over human life. Exaggerated Logic and Incongruity The incongruity of “A Modest Proposal” is further enhanced by the use of exaggerated logic. Swift presents her argument with meticulous attention to detail, calculating the number of children available for sale and estimating the profits that could be made from their sale. He even suggests various cooking methods and recipes, demonstrating a perverse attention to the practical aspects of his proposition. This exaggerated logic serves to emphasize the absurdity of the situation, making it impossible to ignore the moral implications of Swift's proposition. Incongruity in Structure Swift's use of incongruity is not limited to its language and logic; this also extends to the structure of the essay. He begins with a seemingly reasonable discussion of the problem of poverty in Ireland, gradually leading the reader to the shocking conclusion of his proposition. This narrative flow allows Swift to gradually build tension, drawing the reader deeper into her argument before revealing its true nature. By lulling the reader into a false sense of security, Swift intensifies the impact of the incongruity when it is finally revealed. Analogies and Metaphors In addition to incongruity, Swift uses analogies and metaphors to present complex ideas in a relevant and understandable way. He compares Ireland's poor children to cattle, calling them "breeding sows" and "field crops." This dehumanizing language serves to highlight the callousness of society's treatment of the poor and the extent to which they are viewed as mere commodities. In making this analogy, Swift.