What literary device is commonly used by Jonathan Swift to critique societal norms?

Jonathan Swift is renowned for his use of satire, a literary device that allows him to critique societal norms, politics, and human folly through humor, irony, and exaggeration. In works like "A Modest Proposal" and "Gulliver's Travels," Swift employs satirical techniques to address serious issues such as poverty, colonialism, and the moral failings of society. By presenting absurd solutions and fantastical scenarios, he highlights the hypocrisy and failures of contemporary attitudes and policies.

Satire encourages readers to reflect critically on societal issues while engaging them through wit and clever narrative. This dual purpose—entertaining while provoking thought—makes satire particularly effective in Swift's work and is a hallmark of his literary style. The other choices, while important literary devices, do not capture the specific approach Swift is known for in his critiques.