Summary:
“The Progress of Beauty” is a satirical poem written by Jonathan Swift in 1719. In this poem, Swift humorously criticizes the artificial nature of female beauty and the excessive reliance on cosmetics, makeup, and beauty treatments. He highlights how time, age, and artificial enhancements affect a woman’s appearance, revealing the temporary and deceptive nature of physical beauty.
Swift mocks the daily beauty rituals of women, suggesting that their beauty is not natural but rather the result of powders, creams, and perfumes. He contrasts the illusion of youthful beauty with the reality of aging, emphasizing that true beauty is fleeting and ultimately fades.
The poem reflects Swift’s satirical style, using witty rhymes, irony, and sharp humor to expose society’s obsession with superficial appearances. The themes of the poem include the fleeting nature of beauty, vanity, and the artificiality of appearances.
MCQs:
- Who wrote The Progress of Beauty?
A) Alexander Pope
B) Jonathan Swift
C) John Dryden
D) Samuel Johnson
Answer: B) Jonathan Swift - What is the main subject of the poem?
A) The power of love
B) The artificial nature of beauty
C) The history of cosmetics
D) The importance of self-care
Answer: B) The artificial nature of beauty - Which literary device is most commonly used in the poem?
A) Tragic irony
B) Satire and humor
C) Romantic symbolism
D) Allegory
Answer: B) Satire and humor
The Progress of Beauty - What does Swift criticize in the poem?
A) The natural beauty of women
B) The excessive use of cosmetics and beauty products
C) The lack of education among women
D) The fashion industry
Answer: B) The excessive use of cosmetics and beauty products - What does Swift suggest about beauty as time passes?
A) It remains unchanged
B) It fades and becomes an illusion
C) It becomes stronger with age
D) It is completely controlled by fate
Answer: B) It fades and becomes an illusion - How does Swift describe the process of applying makeup?
A) As a magical transformation
B) As a deceptive act that hides reality
C) As an artistic and beautiful ritual
D) As a religious practice
Answer: B) As a deceptive act that hides reality - Which of the following is NOT a theme of the poem?
A) The fleeting nature of beauty
B) The power of true love
C) Vanity and artificiality
D) The deception of appearances
Answer: B) The power of true love - How does Swift view cosmetics and beauty treatments?
A) As a necessary part of life
B) As harmless fun
C) As tools of deception
D) As a sign of intelligence
Answer: C) As tools of deception - What is the tone of the poem?
A) Serious and tragic
B) Lighthearted and humorous
C) Romantic and sentimental
D) Mysterious and suspenseful
Answer: B) Lighthearted and humorous - What does the poem suggest about society’s view of beauty?
A) Beauty is seen as the most important quality in a woman
B) Beauty is not valued in society
C) Society believes intelligence is more important than looks
D) People only appreciate natural beauty
Answer: A) Beauty is seen as the most important quality in a woman
| Question | Answer |
| Poem Name | The Progress of Beauty |
| Poet Name | Jonathan Swift |
| Year Written | 1719 |
| Main Themes | Fleeting beauty, vanity, artificiality, deception |
| Literary Devices | Satire, irony, humor, rhymed couplets |
| Tone | Mocking, humorous, critical |
| Criticism | Overuse of cosmetics, obsession with beauty |
| Swift’s Message | Beauty is temporary and society’s obsession with it is misguided |