What is a major theme in "Gulliver's Travels"?

A major theme in "Gulliver's Travels" is indeed the corrupting influence of power. Throughout the narrative, Jonathan Swift illustrates how individuals in positions of authority become twisted by their power, leading to moral decay and detrimental consequences. This theme is particularly evident in the portrayal of various societies Gulliver encounters, such as the Laputans, who are so consumed by their own intellectual pursuits and power dynamics that they lose touch with practicality and humanity.

Swift uses satire to expose the flaws in human nature when it comes to governance and leadership, showcasing how power can lead to tyranny and oppression. For instance, the Houyhnhnms represent an ideal society governed by reason, contrasting sharply with the degraded Yahoos, who embody the worst traits of humanity influenced by unrestrained power.

By illustrating these dynamics, Swift critiques the political structures of his own time and warns against the dangers of absolute power, making the theme of the corrupting influence of power a central element in the narrative. This theme resonates through the experiences Gulliver faces as he reflects on the societies he visits and the moral complexities surrounding authority and governance.