How were horses viewed during the 18th century according to the narrative?

In the context of the narrative, horses are portrayed quite negatively, reflecting societal attitudes of the 18th century. In “Gulliver's Travels,” the horses, particularly the Houyhnhnms, are depicted as rational and virtuous beings, contrasting sharply with the humans, who are characterized as less than noble. This portrayal serves to emphasize the flaws of humanity, illustrating how horses, in the eyes of the Houyhnhnms, are positioned as superior in intelligence and morality.

The view of horses as the dumbest animals highlights a broader commentary on human nature, suggesting that despite their physical abilities and utility, humans can be much less admirable compared to these creatures. This perspective reveals Swift’s critique of human vanity and folly, encapsulated in the narrative's exploration of intelligence and civilization. The negative view of horses aligns with the greater themes of the text, where intelligence and morality are examined through the lens of different societies.