Jonathan Swift (1667–1745) was an Irish satirist, essayist, and Anglican cleric best known for his biting political and social commentary, especially in works like Gulliver’s Travels and A Modest Proposal. A master of irony and parody, Swift used sharp wit to critique the absurdities of his time, targeting politics, colonialism, and human nature. He served as Dean of St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin and remains one of the foremost prose satirists in the English language.
Lorenzo Mattotti is a visual artist, cartoonist and filmmaker from Brescia, Italy. He is a an indelible graphic voice and a multi-talented creator, publishing illustrations for the press (Le Monde, Télérama, many covers for The New Yorker), children's books (Grand Prix de Bratislava for Eugenio), and graphic novels. His works include Feux, whose colors made him a highly sought-after illustrator and painter, Stigmata (with Claudio Piersanti), and The Raven, a collaboration with Lou Reed.
Patton Oswalt is an Emmy and Grammy Award-winning comedian, actor, and writer known for his sharp wit, pop culture commentary, and roles in shows like The King of Queens and A.P. Bio, as well as voicing Remy in Pixar’s Ratatouille. He has released multiple acclaimed stand-up specials and authored several books blending memoir, humor, and cultural critique. Oswalt is also recognized for his candid reflections on grief, resilience, and the role of comedy in the human condition.
Liz Bellamy is the author The Language of Fruit, Commerce, Morality and the 18th Century Novel, and Jonathan's Swift's Gulliver's Travels. She teaches English at City College Norwich and the Open University.
