What is the primary occupation of Lemuel Gulliver?

Lemuel Gulliver's primary occupation as a surgeon and sea captain is well-documented in Jonathan Swift's "Gulliver's Travels." Throughout the narrative, Gulliver’s experiences at sea are intricately tied to his role as both a medical practitioner and a leader aboard his ship. This dual occupation is significant as it not only allows him to travel to various fantastical lands but also to engage in the unique situations he faces in each society, applying both his medical skills and his authority as a captain.

This combination of roles gives him a distinctive perspective on the various cultures he encounters, enriching the satire of human nature that Swift is renowned for. The other occupations listed, such as merchant and explorer or teacher and philosopher, do not encapsulate the full depth of Gulliver’s character and the narrative, which is driven largely by his experiences and decisions as a surgeon and a captain. Thus, this choice accurately reflects his primary role within the story.