Question.1735 - Essay 1: An Argument Against Abolishing Christianity
Answer Below:
Introduction The author of this essay, Jonathan Swift, provides a provocative and frequently amusing critique of the proposition to outlaw Christianity in England. Swift explores the possible benefits and drawbacks of making such a radical decision in his 1708 essay, which comprises several arguments and counterarguments. Conscience rights, religious tolerance, and the place of Christianity in society are all complex issues that he maneuvers through. Through highlighting the unforeseen effects and potential underlying causes, Swift's work challenges readers to consider the implications of abolishing a long-standing institution like Christianity. Swift presents a witty argument on a hotly debated subject in his day in this essay (Swift, 2008). Discussion Swift admits at the paper's outset that it would be ridiculous to disagree with the popular opinion of the day. He highlights the influence of widespread belief in molding the national discourse by jokingly pointing out that writing critical of Christianity was prohibited even before it became illegal. Though it is no longer a valuable and robust system, Swift makes it plain that he wants to avoid defending true Christianity as it was practiced in its early days. In contrast, the main topic of his article is nominal Christianity, which has a place in society despite not being a true faith (Gardiner, 2010). The claim that eliminating Christianity will advance conscience and liberty is one of the justifications offered by those who favor doing so. Swift responds, stating that the fear of blasphemy prosecution is unjustified and that such liberty already exists (Swift, 2008). He draws attention to how ridiculous the trial of the two young gentlemen for blasphemy is, demonstrating how uncommon this kind of persecution is and how commonplace freedom of speech already is. Swift proceeds to refute the assertion that removing Christianity would result in an additional day every seven days. He jokingly refutes this assertion by pointing out that the existence of churches on Sundays does not significantly hinder trade, business, or pleasure. It is erroneous to argue that eliminating religion would result in an additional day of production (Walsh, 2003). The concept of bringing Protestants together by eliminating Christianity is also covered in the article. Swift wonders if this would work because there will always be a spirit of resistance and a need for a topic to be mocked and disregarded. He contends that doing away with Christianity will not solve the underlying problems causing these divisions and might unintentionally encourage the Church's comeback. Swift expresses concern that the abolition of Christianity would result in the emergence of a new religion or belief system—possibly even Popery. He makes the point that doing so would put the current alliance with Christian nations in jeopardy and that the ramifications of such a move should be thoroughly examined (Swift, 2008). Conclusion In conclusion, Jonathan Swift's is a superb piece of sarcastic literature. Swift illustrates the difficulties and possible repercussions of outlawing Christianity with wit and cunning, ultimately raising the possibility that it might not be the answer that its supporters think it is. Using satire to highlight social issues, the author's essay offers a perceptive analysis of the dominant beliefs of the period. References Gardiner, A. B. (2010). An Argument against Abolishing Christianity and its Contexts. The Scriblerian and the Kit-Cats, 42(2/1), 37. An Argument against Abolishing Christianity and its Contexts - ProQuest Swift, J. (2008). An argument against abolishing Christianity (p. 1708). University of Adelaide Library. An Argument Against Abolishing Christianity (samizdat.qc.ca) Walsh, M. (2003). Swift and religion. The Cambridge Companion to Jonathan Swift, pp. 161–176.The Cambridge Companion to Jonathan Swift - Google BooksMore Articles From Literature
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