Using Swift’s “A Modest Proposal” as your primary text, write an essay about the power of satire. What is it used for? Why did the writer choose that particular form of presentation to carry forth his message? Please bring it at least one other form for written, textual satire as a counterpoint. For example, we will also read Woody Allen’s spoof of the Nazis, “The Schmeed Memoirs” (uploaded in Files in CANVAS) or research or come discuss with me. Finally, you may also bring into the discussion one (only one) film or tv example of satire. (The second page of this assignment sheet shows a list of many satirical authors.)
WRITING PROMPT
WHAT IS THE POWER OF SATIRE & WHY DO WRITERS CHOOSE THIS APPROACH OVER OTHER METHODS? ALSO, WHY IS “A MODEST PROPOSAL,” NOW ALMOST THREE HUNDRED YEARS OLD, THE MOST FAMOUS ESSAY IN THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE, STUDIED AND ADMIRED TO THIS DAY?