The Battle of the Books, and Other Short Pieces

Set in the King's Library, this short satire presents a whimsical yet pointed conflict among books, representing the clash between ideas and authors. Jonathan Swift cleverly uses this literal battle to critique the rivalry known as the Quarrel of the Ancients and the Moderns. Published in 1704 as part of the prolegomena to A Tale of a Tub, it stands as one of Swift's earliest notable works, highlighting his sharp wit and commentary on literary and intellectual debates of his time.