Question

read the following excerpt from a modest proposal, by jonathan swift:
and besides, it is not improbable that some scrupulous people might be apt to censure using less affluent children as a source of food, (although indeed very unjustly,) as a little bordering upon cruelty; which, i confess, has always been with me the strongest objection against any project, how well soever intended.
bearing in mind that censure means to criticize, what is most likely the opinion of the author (but not the narrator)?
a. he believes that the people who disapprove of this plan are hypocritical for ignoring the plight of the poor.
b. he considers himself scrupulous despite his proposal to sell and consume children.
c. he is concerned that some people with political power would censure his plan despite its economic soundness.
d. he believes that his project would solve many financial problems for his nation.

Explanation:

In "A Modest Proposal," Swift uses satire. The narrator presents a shocking idea (using children as food). The author (Swift) is critiquing society. Option A makes sense as Swift would see those who ignore the poor's plight (while criticizing his extreme - on - purpose - shocking 'plan') as hypocritical. Option B is wrong because the narrator's proposal is satirical, not the author's real stance. Option C is incorrect as the 'plan' is a satirical device, not something the author thinks has economic soundness. Option D is wrong as the 'project' is a satirical exaggeration, not a real solution the author believes in.

Answer:

A. He believes that the people who disapprove of this plan are hypocritical for ignoring the plight of the poor.