The Influence of the Draper's Letters on Irish Politics

2min Snip

00:00

Play full episode

Summary

Transcript

Episode notes

The draperier's letters emerged as a series of pamphlets written in 1724, wherein I assumed the persona of a humble draper. The purpose of these letters was to protest against the patent granted by the British government to William Wood and his half-pence. Many feared that it would lead to the debasement of Irish currency and further economic exploitation. As a result of the mounting pressure, the British government eventually withdrew the patent; Wood's half-pences were never circulated in Ireland.

In this conversation, Tyler uses ChatGPT to interview Jonathan Swift about his views on religion, politics, economics, and literature. GPT Swift discusses his support for the Church of Ireland, his shift from the Whigs to the Tories, and his opposition to William Wood's copper coinage in Ireland. He also talks about his works, including Gulliver's Travels and A Modest Proposal, and his skepticism of moral and intellectual progress. Swift addresses rumors about his relationship with Esther Johnson and his fascination with scatological themes in his works. He also discusses his early life in England, his intellectual mentor Sir William Temple, and his jovial attitude towards death.

Special thanks to our Mercatus Center colleague Robin Currie for giving voice to Jonathan GPT Swift.

Read a full transcript enhanced with helpful links.

Recorded March 23rd, 2023

Other ways to connect

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram
Follow Tyler on Twitter
Email us: cowenconvos@mercatus.gmu.edu
Learn more about Conversations with Tyler and other Mercatus Center podcasts here.