What literary genre does "Gulliver's Travels" primarily belong to?

"Gulliver's Travels" primarily belongs to satirical fiction, a genre that combines storytelling with humor and critique of societal norms. Jonathan Swift, the author, employs satire to reveal the absurdities and flaws within human nature, politics, and society during his time. Through the adventures of Lemuel Gulliver, the protagonist, Swift critiques various aspects of European culture, including the pettiness of political factions, the limitations of human reason, and the moral failures of humanity.

The use of fantastical elements, such as the different civilizations Gulliver encounters—like the tiny Lilliputians and the gigantic Brobdingnagians—serves as a lens through which Swift examines real-world issues, making complex ideas more accessible to readers. Thus, the primary aim is not just entertainment but a profound commentary on contemporary life, which is a hallmark of satirical fiction.

While other genres like Romantic fiction or Science fiction might include elements of adventure and imagination, they lack the specific critical focus and direct commentary on society that characterize satirical works. Historical fiction, on the other hand, tends to ground its narratives in real historical events and figures, which is not the primary aim of Swift's narrative.