Writing Homework Help

Here is the prompt for your next essay:

Explain Swift’s decision to use satirical logic using these three terms of Toulmin’s Argument format

Label Swift’s Claim (Something about his decision to tell a sick joke)

Label Swift’s Warrant (A reason why satire is safer than a serious complaint)

Label Swift’s Support (Some evidence or proof)

Discuss the intent of Swift in writing this

• Who is his audience?
• Why do you think he would try to reach them by using a satirical argument?
• How might his audience have reacted to this 18th century political commentary?
• How would their reaction differ if his argument was straightforward?
• What is your reaction to this grotesquely written proposal?

Find a modern context connection

• What are some modern contextual examples that might parallel Swift’s clever means of social commentary?
• How does your understanding of these modern satires influence your perception of Swift and the accomplishments of this text?

Reflect on the social/political value of satire in the media

• Juxtapose Swift’s work with some modern contextual examples as you analyze the value of satire.