A Modest Proposal and 18th Century

To be honest, when I heard “a modest proposal”, I thought that it’s kind of marriage proposal. :) But as I read it, I come across a sad proposal. It was written by Jonathan Swift in a satiric way. He said that let’s fatten up thin children and sell them to rich people. Poor people’s children can be sold in a meat market. He suggests recipes for delicious food. According to him, doing it contributed to Ireland’s economy. Also husbands will treat their wifes more politely.Of course, there is irony. He tells the situations objectively.

18th century is known as Augustan Age. There were peace and prosperity. Also there was a movement which is called “Rationalism.” Rationalist people don’t believe emotions. In their mind there was no imagination. According to them, power of reason is more important than imagination and emotions. Thus, this is also known age of reason.

There were change from classical to romantic. Rising of prose was seen. In proses, there were clarity and coherence. Also no emotion in works.

In 18th century, the most important thing is Industrial Revolution. It contributes to many unemployment people. Steam engines were improved. Also, it makes the transportation easier.