What does Gulliver's inability to relieve himself in privacy represent?

Gulliver's inability to relieve himself in privacy symbolizes the lack of dignity in his situation. Throughout "Gulliver's Travels," as he finds himself in various societies, this particular experience highlights the dehumanizing aspects of being treated as a curiosity or spectacle. His physical vulnerability and the degradation that comes from being observed during such a private moment reflect the broader theme of how power dynamics in different societies can strip individuals of their dignity.

In contrast to other aspects of his journey, this moment sharply illustrates how Gulliver's status changes drastically; he goes from a ship's surgeon, which is associated with autonomy and respect, to a mere object of amusement for the tiny Lilliputians. This loss of dignity serves as a critique of how society can reduce individuals to lesser states, particularly through the lens of power and perception.