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 Jonathan Swift
(1667-1745)
Complete
Works Prose
Complete
Works Poetry
Sample
of Articles on Swift's Work
Jonathan Swift was one of the world's greatest satirists with works in
both verse and prose. He was a champion of social justice, dedicating
his life to defence of the poor of Ireland most notably against British
government policies.
Swift's
'Drapier's Letters' had a strong political impact in 1722, riling the
Irish nation against an attempt by the British government to impose an
inferior quality coinage on Ireland, known as Wood's coinage. Due to the
strength of public opinion Wood's patent was withdrawn in 1725.
'A Modest Proposal' was an attack on the attempt by Britain to further
devalue the Irish economy. Though no political changes were achieved,
the work was highly controversial and served to highlight the injustices
and inhumanity perpetuated on the Irish.
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Short Biography
Kilkenny College
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Short Biography
Jonathan Swift was
born at No.7 Hoey's Court Dublin in November 1667. His father died before
he was born and the young Jonathan was reared by his uncle Godwin. He
saw little of his mother during his young years.When he was six years
old he was sent to School in Kilkenny College, 8km from the Swift family
home in Jenkinstown. Jonathan remained at Kilkenny College until he was
fourteen years old having been educated in classical studies. He completed
his education at Trinity College, Dublin and his first employment was
as secretary to Sir William Temple.
It was during this period that he met 'Stella.' In 1702 he received his
D.D. from Trinity and spent three years in London where he became immersed
in politics. His influence in court brought him the Deanery of St. Patrick's
Cathedral in Dublin.
In his latter days Swift sank into dementia, having become progressively
morose and morbidly suspicious. He died on October 19th, 1745. He left
sufficient fortune behind for the building of St.Patrick's mental institution
in Dublin, the first of its kind in Ireland. He is buried in St. Patrick's
cathedral.
Detailed
biography to be added soon.
Kilkenny
College
Kilkenny
College was founded in 1667. The most famous products of the school
were Swift and George Berkley - philosopher, economist, physicist and
Bishiop of Cloyne. By 1673, Kilkenny College was considered to be "the
best school in Ireland". In 1685 King James II came to the throne
and in 1688 the school was broken up and the endowment of the school became
vested in the crown. For a short time the college buildings were used
as a hospital.
The school however, reopened about 1691. From that date until the middle
of Queen Victoria's reign the school continued to fourish. Many boys attained
great distinction and the school had a standing like that of the great
English Public Schools. The education was based on the Classics.
In recent times, the school was moved to Newpark and the old school premises
were replaced with City Council Offices in John Street.
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