'A Modest Proposal' uses an approach called satire to make its point, which is the use of irony, humor or exaggeration to criticize the ideas of others. Swift obviously doesn't sincerely want the people of Ireland to sell their children as food, but he's using the outrageous concept to deliver a message.

What is the purpose of satire in A Modest Proposal?

The purpose of the satire in Swift's "A Modest Proposal" is to draw attention to the plight of the poor Irish in 1729 and, by doing so, hopefully improve their lot and change the way the English treat them.

What satire is used in A Modest Proposal?

(Google) In "A Modest Proposal" Swift uses parody which is a form of satire. Parody is primarily making fun of something to create a humorous feel for it. In “A Modest Proposal,” Swift uses parody to make fun of the people and children of Ireland, expressing the children as delicious food to be eaten.