Gulliver's Travels

Main Characters and Their Development

• Lemuel Gulliver: The main character of the book, a surgeon and captain of several ships. At the beginning of the book, he is portrayed as an educated and curious man eager for new discoveries. Throughout his travels, he encounters various cultures and creatures, which greatly influence his worldview. Gulliver becomes more critical of human nature and society, especially after visiting the land of the Houyhnhnms, where he sees an ideal society of rational horses.
• Emperor of Lilliput: The ruler of Lilliput, the land of tiny people. He initially receives Gulliver with interest and respect, but later, due to political intrigues and misunderstandings, orders his execution. This character illustrates the pettiness and vanity of power.
• Glumdalclitch: A young giantess from Brobdingnag who becomes Gulliver's caretaker. She looks after him and protects him, demonstrating kindness and compassion.
• King of Brobdingnag: The ruler of the land of giants, who displays wisdom and a philosophical mindset. He is interested in Gulliver and his tales of Europe but ultimately becomes disillusioned with human civilization, considering it corrupt and cruel.
• Houyhnhnms: Intelligent horses living in the land of the Houyhnhnms. They represent the ideal of rationality and virtue. Interaction with them forces Gulliver to reconsider his views on human nature and society.
• Yahoos: Wild and degenerate human-like creatures living in the land of the Houyhnhnms. They represent the opposite of the Houyhnhnms and symbolize the worst traits of humanity. Interaction with the Yahoos deepens Gulliver's disappointment in people.