How does Gulliver initially perceive the Lilliputians?

Gulliver's initial perception of the Lilliputians is shaped by their physical appearance and their societal structure. When he first encounters them, he finds them to be minuscule compared to himself, which leads to a feeling of superiority. This sense of superiority stems from his belief that he is much larger and thus inherently more powerful than these tiny beings. He observes their ways and customs, often viewing them as quaint or bizarre artifacts of a less sophisticated society. Consequently, he considers them inferior in intellect and status, believing that their small size and peculiar behavior denote a lesser civilization. This perspective highlights the theme of size and power in the narrative, where Gulliver's own stature gives him a biased view of those who are different from him.