Gulliver's Travels

Book Review

Jonathan Swift's «Gulliver's Travels» is a satirical masterpiece that remains relevant to this day. Critics note that Swift masterfully uses Gulliver's fantastical journeys to expose human vices and social shortcomings. Each of Gulliver's four journeys—to Lilliput, Brobdingnag, Laputa, and the land of the Houyhnhnms—serves as an allegory, mocking various aspects of human nature and society. The Lilliputians symbolize pettiness and vanity, the giants of Brobdingnag represent brute strength and simplicity, the inhabitants of Laputa embody the absurdity of scientific and philosophical speculations, and the Houyhnhnms represent an idealized society contrasted with human depravity. Critics also emphasize that Swift not only entertains the reader but also prompts reflection on profound moral and philosophical questions. His biting humor and brilliant style make the book not only engaging but also deeply significant.