Question

Which statement best describes Swift’s use of rhetorical devices in this excerpt?

Answer 1

Answer: Swift uses irony when he says the person with whom he discussed his plan is “very worthy” and “a true lover of this country.”

In the excerpt, Swift tells us of his discussion with a man. He describes the man as "very worthy" and "a true lover of his country." However, the man complains about the diminishing number of deer, and his proposed solution is to eat boys and girls between 12 and 14 years of age. Therefore, the description of the man is ironic, as he is not worthy or loving at all.

Answer 2

Based on the excerpt, Swift uses irony when he saya the person who he discussed his plan is "very worthy" and "a true lover of his country". It is an irony because it is the opposite of the characteristic of the man he's talking to.