1. A BRIEF OVERVIEW Background for “A Modest Proposal”

2. British in Ireland  At the time, British exerted such control over Ireland that it was nearly a British colony.  British considered Irish to be inferior.  Jonathan Swift—Irish Patriot.

3. Verbal Irony and Sarcasm Verbal irony:  what is said is the opposite of what is meant. Sarcasm:  the use of a mocking, ironic tone.

4. Argumentative Writing: Problem-Solution Essays Identifies the problem and its causes. Proposes a solution (and how to implement it). Provides support for the solution using reasons and evidence. Notes other possible solutions and argues against them.