4
QuizMultiple Choice

Satire in Swift's "A Modest Proposal" (Continued) — Quiz

Question 4 • English Language Arts 12

In "A Modest Proposal," why does Swift intentionally use false premises as a basis for his arguments?

Answer
A
to suggest that his proposal is truly genuine
B
to prove that he has made some valid points
C
to lighten a serious topic with playful humor
D
to signal that he is actually writing a satire

Explanation

Swift uses deliberately false or shocking premises to expose the cruelty and absurdity of the real attitudes he is criticizing. The contrast between his calm, logical-sounding argument and its outrageous proposal alerts readers that the essay is satire, not a genuine plan. Therefore, the best answer is “to signal that he is actually writing a satire.”

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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