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Tale of a Tub

Tale of a Tub

By: Jonathan Swift
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 A Tale of a Tub marks Jonathan Swifts first significant work, crafted between 1694 and 1697 and published in 1704. Often considered his most challenging satire, this prose parody intricately weaves together sections of humorous digression and the fable of three brothers, each symbolizing a major branch of Western Christianity. The narrative is widely interpreted as a critique of religious fervor, drawing criticism from figures like William Wotton. While the tale consistently satirizes religious excess, the digressions serve as sharp parodies of contemporary literature, politics, theology, biblical interpretation, and medicine. The overarching theme critiques enthusiasm, pride, and gullibility. In an era when politics and religion were intricately intertwined in England, the religious and political satire often blurs together. Although Swifts work made him infamous and was misinterpreted by Queen Anne as mere profanity, it remains one of his most celebrated allegories. Despite its popularity, Swift believed it hindered his ambitions within the Church of England.Copyright Comedy and Fairy Tales Art Literary History & Criticism Political Science Politics & Government Spirituality
Episodes
  • 013 - Section 12

    013 - Section 12
    Nov 20 2025
    A Tale of a Tub marks Jonathan Swifts first significant work, crafted between 1694 and 1697 and published in 1704. Often considered his most challenging satire, this prose parody intricately weaves together sections of humorous digression and the fable of three brothers, each symbolizing a major branch of Western Christianity. The narrative is widely interpreted as a critique of religious fervor, drawing criticism from figures like William Wotton. While the tale consistently satirizes religious excess, the digressions serve as sharp parodies of contemporary literature, politics, theology, biblical interpretation, and medicine. The overarching theme critiques enthusiasm, pride, and gullibility. In an era when politics and religion were intricately intertwined in England, the religious and political satire often blurs together. Although Swifts work made him infamous and was misinterpreted by Queen Anne as mere profanity, it remains one of his most celebrated allegories. Despite its popularity, Swift believed it hindered his ambitions within the Church of England.
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    22 mins
  • 012 - Section 11

    012 - Section 11
    Nov 19 2025
    A Tale of a Tub marks Jonathan Swifts first significant work, crafted between 1694 and 1697 and published in 1704. Often considered his most challenging satire, this prose parody intricately weaves together sections of humorous digression and the fable of three brothers, each symbolizing a major branch of Western Christianity. The narrative is widely interpreted as a critique of religious fervor, drawing criticism from figures like William Wotton. While the tale consistently satirizes religious excess, the digressions serve as sharp parodies of contemporary literature, politics, theology, biblical interpretation, and medicine. The overarching theme critiques enthusiasm, pride, and gullibility. In an era when politics and religion were intricately intertwined in England, the religious and political satire often blurs together. Although Swifts work made him infamous and was misinterpreted by Queen Anne as mere profanity, it remains one of his most celebrated allegories. Despite its popularity, Swift believed it hindered his ambitions within the Church of England.
    Show More Show Less
    24 mins
  • 011 - Section 10

    011 - Section 10
    Nov 19 2025
    A Tale of a Tub marks Jonathan Swifts first significant work, crafted between 1694 and 1697 and published in 1704. Often considered his most challenging satire, this prose parody intricately weaves together sections of humorous digression and the fable of three brothers, each symbolizing a major branch of Western Christianity. The narrative is widely interpreted as a critique of religious fervor, drawing criticism from figures like William Wotton. While the tale consistently satirizes religious excess, the digressions serve as sharp parodies of contemporary literature, politics, theology, biblical interpretation, and medicine. The overarching theme critiques enthusiasm, pride, and gullibility. In an era when politics and religion were intricately intertwined in England, the religious and political satire often blurs together. Although Swifts work made him infamous and was misinterpreted by Queen Anne as mere profanity, it remains one of his most celebrated allegories. Despite its popularity, Swift believed it hindered his ambitions within the Church of England.
    Show More Show Less
    10 mins
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