Irony

     Jonathan Swift's "A Modest Proposal" is possibly classified as one of the most ironic pieces of literature of all times, being that his essay as a whole is even ironic. Irony is defined as "the expression of one's meaning by using language that normally signifies the opposite, typically for humorous or emphatic effect" (apple dictionary). A prime example of irony in this passage is "There is likewise another great advantage in my scheme, that it will prevent those voluntary abortions, and that horrid practice of women murdering their bastard children, alas, too frequent among us, sacrificing the poor innocent babes, I doubt, more to avoid the expense than the shame which would move tears and pity in the most savage and inhumane breast" (355). This is an example of irony in the passage because as Swift is proposing to sell babies to the upper class for food, and yet, he is saying doing this will prevent abortions, the "horrid practice" of women murdering their babies. Whether is be for food or abortion, the babies are still dying, am I not right? He states this proposal as another great advantage to his scheme, yet aborting or selling can be argued to retain the same meaning. 

Rottenberg, Annette T., and Donna Haisty Winchell. "Chapter 9: Avoiding Flawed      Logic." Elements of argument: a text and reader. 1985. Reprint. New York: St.      Martin's Press, 2010. 354-361. Print.