Satire is a literary technique in which institutions, practices, or behaviors are ridiculed for the purpose of bringing about reform. Authors write satire to comment on social and political issues and to advocate for improving society. To accomplish their goals, satirists use a variety of rhetorical devices. The success of a satire often depends on readers’ ability to distinguish what is stated from what is really meant. As you read A Modest Proposal, use this chart to identify examples of rhetorical devices in the essay. You must have a minimum of 8 quotes: at least one quote per device, some devices may have several. RHETORICAL DEVICE QUOTE VERBAL IRONY - a writer says the opposite of what is meant ● “I shall now therefore humbly propose my own thoughts, which I hope will not be liable to the least objection.” ● “I rather recommend buying the children alive, and dressing them hot from the knife as we do roasting pigs.” UNDERSTATEMENT - a writer says less than is expected or appropriate HYPERBOLE - a writer overstates the truth for emphasis or humorous effect PARADOX - a writer states a contradiction that seems absurd but actually reveals an element of truth
