Jonathan Swift (30 November 1667 – 19 October 1745) was an Anglo-Irish satirist, essayist, political pamphleteer, poet, and cleric who became Dean of St Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin, hence his common sobriquet, "Dean Swift."
Swift was born in Dublin, Ireland, into a family of English descent. He lost his father, Jonathan Swift Sr., before he was born. His mother, Abigail Erick, returned to England, leaving him in Ireland to be raised by his uncle, Godwin Swift. Swift attended Kilkenny College and later Trinity College, Dublin, where he received his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1686.
After his education, Swift moved to England and worked as a secretary for Sir William Temple, a diplomat, at Moor Park, Surrey. Here, he met Esther Johnson, known as "Stella," who would become a lifelong friend and possibly his secret wife. His relationship with Temple was not always smooth, leading Swift to return to Ireland in 1694 to take holy orders in the Church of Ireland.
Swift's literary career took off with satirical works that critiqued politics and society:
Swift was deeply involved in political commentary and activism:
Swift's health declined in his later years, suffering from Meniere's disease, which affected his hearing, balance, and mental state. He left a large sum for the establishment of St Patrick's Hospital for Imbeciles in Dublin, now known as Swift Hospital. He died in 1745 and was buried in St Patrick's Cathedral.
Swift's legacy includes his profound influence on English literature, particularly in the genre of satire. His work continues to be studied for its sharp wit, moral complexity, and critique of society. His writings are often cited in discussions of political theory, economics, and social justice.
Sources: