Why does Gulliver see himself as a “stranger” in Lilliput and Brobdingnag?

Gulliver perceives himself as a “stranger” in Lilliput and Brobdingnag primarily due to the stark contrast in size between himself and the inhabitants of these lands. In Lilliput, he is a giant among the tiny people, while in Brobdingnag, he appears as a diminutive figure among the colossal giants. This fundamental difference in size creates a significant sense of alienation for Gulliver, as it alters not only his physical interactions but also his social dynamics with the locals. Their reactions to him, the way they communicate, and even their perceptions of strength and power are all influenced by his size, which exacerbates his feelings of foreignness and isolation in each society.

While language, beliefs, and customs can certainly contribute to feelings of being out of place, it is the physical size disparity that most directly informs Gulliver's encounter and experience in these two fantastical cultures. This size difference serves as a powerful metaphor in the narrative, reflecting broader themes of perspective, power, and identity within the novel.