How does Swift use Gulliver's character to convey political views?

Prepare for the Gulliver's Travels Test. Dive into detail with flashcards and multiple choice questions, complete with useful hints and explanations. Ready yourself for success!

Swift employs Gulliver's character as a means to convey his political views by presenting him as detached and reflective. This characteristic allows Gulliver to critique the various societies he encounters without becoming too emotionally involved, which provides a space for commentary on political corruption, human folly, and the absurdities of society.

Through this detachment, Swift can highlight the contradictions and flaws within different political systems, such as those in England or the Laputans. Gulliver's reflective nature enables him to observe the societal norms and behaviors of the cultures he interacts with, often leading him to question the validity of his own society's practices. This thoughtful examination aligns with Swift's satirical approach, allowing readers to engage with serious themes about governance and morality while still remaining entertained by the narrative's fantastical elements.

The other options do not align with Swift's intention as effectively. Portraying Gulliver as a successful diplomat or confident leader would suggest a more traditional acceptance of political structures rather than critiquing them. Emphasizing wealth and power would shift focus away from the underlying satirical critique that is central to Gulliver's character and the broader narrative.

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