What does Gulliver use to capture the Lilliputians after they first bind him?

Gulliver's ability to capture the Lilliputians after they first bind him is rooted in his strength and size. At the time of his encounter with the Lilliputians, he is significantly larger than them, which gives him a physical advantage despite being temporarily restrained. Once he is abandoned by the Lilliputians, his sheer size allows him to easily overpower and capture them when he decides to take control of the situation. This dynamic demonstrates the thematic contrast in the story between the giant Gulliver and the tiny inhabitants of Lilliput, where physical dimensions play a crucial role in the interactions between characters and the power dynamics present.

The other options do not accurately capture the primary reason for Gulliver's ability to subdue the Lilliputians in this context. While cunning, knowledge, and communication skills are important traits throughout the narrative, it's his physical stature that is directly responsible for the successful capture at this moment.