AP English Literature Modest Proposal Analysis Questions

AP English Literature Modest Proposal Analysis Questions

Jonathan Swift's 'A Modest Proposal' presents a satirical solution to the plight of the impoverished Irish population by suggesting the consumption of children. This analysis includes AP-style questions that explore the text's themes, rhetorical devices, and the author's ironic tone. Designed for AP English Literature students, it helps in understanding Swift's critique of British policy and societal indifference. The questions cover various aspects, including appeals to ethos, pathos, and logos, as well as the structure and progression of arguments within the text.

Key Points

  • Includes AP-style questions focused on Jonathan Swift's 'A Modest Proposal'.
  • Analyzes rhetorical devices and the ironic tone of the text.
  • Explores themes of poverty and societal indifference in 18th-century Ireland.
  • Covers appeals to ethos, pathos, and logos in Swift's arguments.
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Modest Proposal – AP Questions
1. The author’s style is characterized by his
I. technical diction
II. ironic tone
III. elaborate syntax
a. I only
b. II only
c. I and II only
d. II and III only
e. I, II, and III
2. In paragraph 6, with the phrase “except where they are of towardly parts,” the speaker
I. refutes a contrasting argument in order to strengthen his position
II. qualifies a previous generalization about the Irish children
III. offers an exception to the terms of the proposal
a. I only
b. II only
c. I and II only
d. II and III only
e. I, II, and III
3. In paragraph 6, the speaker makes which of the following appeals?
I. substantive
II. authoritative
III. motivational
a. I only
b. II only
c. I and II only
d. II and III only
e. I, II, and III
4. The speaker appeals to each of the following EXCEPT
a. pity
b. reason
c. economy
d. avarice
e. pragmatism
5. Paragraph 15 presents appeals to each of the following EXCEPT
a. gentility
b. patriotism
c. economy
d. utility
e. indulgence
6. In paragraph 17, the speaker offers as a “refinement” of his proposal each of the
following EXCEPT
a. the meat would be too tough to enjoy
b. there would result a loss of able-bodied workers
c. the cost of fattening teenagers would be prohibitive
d. the practice would bring charges of cruelty
e. there would result a loss of breeders
7. In the fourth sentence of paragraph 17 (“Then as to the females, it would…”), “it”
refers to
a. “flesh…generally tough and lean, like that of our schoolboys by continual
exercise”
b. “these to be disposed of…otherwise by their nearest relations”
c. “cruelty…the strongest objection against any project”
d. “both sexes…being now ready to starve for want of work and service”
e. “the want of venison…supplied by the bodies of young lads and maidens”
8. The speaker admits which of the following as the strongest objection to any proposal?
a. that it would be regarded as cruel
b. that it would promote avarice
c. that it would reduce population
d. that it would violate the law
e. that it would encourage exploitation
9. Which of the following describes the rhetorical progression of paragraph 17?
a. general statements followed by specific examples
b. attitude of acceptance leading to persuasive reasoning
c. statements of flattery moving to gentle criticism
d. presentation of qualified argument followed by refutation
e. specific information leading to general thesis
10. In paragraph 17, each of the following serves as antecedent to the same pronoun
EXCEPT
a. friend
b. lover
c. patriot
d. acquaintance
e. person
11. With the phrase “persons of quality,” in paragraph 18, the speaker appeals to
a. economy
b. philanthropy
c. pity
d. gentility
e. misogyny
12. The speaker uses each of the following arguments in support of his proposal
EXCEPT
a. it would prevent voluntary abortions
b. it would ease the burden of parents too poor to feed their children
c. it would decrease the incidence of domestic violence
d. it would stimulate Ireland’s economy with a new and profitable export
e. it would provide greater culinary variety for the genteel
13. Which of the following are offered as advantages of the proposal?
I. It would lessen the number of Papists
II. It would increase the number of marriages
III. It would decrease the number of suicides
a. I only
b. II only
c. I and II only
d. I and III only
e. II and III only
14. The tone of Swift’s speaker might best be described as
a. reasoned and confident
b. ironic and absurd
c. condescending and indifferent
d. arrogant and illogical
e. diffident and objective
15. Which of the following is most effective in assuaging possible feelings of disgust in
the reader?
a. the technical aspect of the facts and figures
b. the speaker’s avoidance of the grotesque
c. the blunt candor of the proposal
d. the ironic nature of the proposal
e. the rational analysis supporting the proposal
16. Swift evidently wishes to have effected which of the following among members of
his contemporary audience?
a. They will be convinced of the soundness of the proposal
b. They will be willing to absolve the speaker of selfish motives
c. They will be willing to adopt a modified version of his proposal
d. They will feel that some of their own selfish motives are exposed
e. They will view the proposal as an opportunity for further personal gain
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FAQs of AP English Literature Modest Proposal Analysis Questions

What are the main themes in Jonathan Swift's 'A Modest Proposal'?
The main themes in 'A Modest Proposal' include satire, social criticism, and the moral implications of economic exploitation. Swift critiques British policies that neglect the suffering of the Irish poor, using irony to highlight the absurdity of his proposal. The text also explores themes of dehumanization and the consequences of viewing people as mere economic units. Through his shocking suggestions, Swift aims to provoke a moral response from his audience.
How does Swift use irony in 'A Modest Proposal'?
Irony is a central device in 'A Modest Proposal', as Swift presents a shocking solution to poverty that is intended to be taken as absurd. By suggesting the consumption of children, he highlights the extreme neglect faced by the Irish population and criticizes the indifference of the wealthy. This ironic approach forces readers to confront the harsh realities of poverty and the moral failings of society. Swift's use of irony serves to engage the audience and provoke critical thought about real solutions to social issues.
What rhetorical appeals does Swift employ in his proposal?
Swift employs ethos, pathos, and logos throughout 'A Modest Proposal' to strengthen his argument. Ethos is established through his credible tone and the logical structure of his proposal, which suggests he has thought deeply about the issue. Pathos is invoked by appealing to the emotions of the audience, particularly their pity for the suffering Irish families. Logos is evident in the statistical and economic reasoning Swift uses to present his proposal as a practical solution, despite its grotesque nature.
What is the significance of the title 'A Modest Proposal'?
The title 'A Modest Proposal' is deeply ironic, as it contrasts with the shocking content of the essay. By labeling his outrageous suggestion as 'modest', Swift underscores the absurdity of the situation in Ireland and critiques the lack of serious solutions to poverty. The title invites readers to question the sincerity of the proposal and reflects Swift's satirical intent. It sets the stage for a discussion on the moral responsibilities of society towards its most vulnerable members.
How does Swift address counterarguments in 'A Modest Proposal'?
In 'A Modest Proposal', Swift anticipates and addresses potential counterarguments by acknowledging the moral objections to his proposal. He presents these objections only to refute them with logical reasoning, suggesting that the benefits of his proposal outweigh the moral concerns. This technique not only strengthens his argument but also highlights the desensitization of society to the plight of the poor. By engaging with counterarguments, Swift demonstrates the depth of his critique and the urgency of addressing social issues.

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