Gulliver’s Travels, whose full title is Travels into Several Remote Nations of the World; In 4 Parts.

Originally published: October 28, 1726 by Jonathan Swift

Gulliver’s Travels (Travels into Several Remote Nations of the World) has Lemuel Gulliver telling the story of his life where in the beginning he studies medicine under an assumed name, becomes a surgeon, travels on ships and later resides in London. On another sea voyage that he thought would be his last, the ship hits a storm and the crew is lost. Gulliver swims to shore, falls asleep and wakes up to little people tying him down. Gulliver living among the little people is different and diverse with conflict. They all persevere and they all go home.

Gulliver’s Travels is a fantasy, but also an adventure story, a satire, and a fable. The original had no illustrations. However, through the years there have been many adaptations of this story. Even though this fantasy novel has four parts, what is remembered by most is the first part which has always been made into a Hollywood movie. The movies are nothing like the book.

How does this explore the satire of politics and colonialism in England at the time when this book was written? During this period Europe was powerful while England was small. What did England have that was more significant the Europe’s power?

Activities would align with Saint Leo value of Respect because the book shows that size and power is relative. That power in a society is guided by what is right. The author Swift also suggests that in regards to the many interpretations of the Bible does not mean that any one interpretation is either right or wrong.

Gulliver’s Travels is a fascinating read. It’s about power, a person’s limitations, diversity, cultural differences and above all respect for others. It has many plots but the book teaches about sympathy, to not criticize or judge and to keep in mind that another person’s difference is not to be ridiculed.

Swift, J., & Williams, S.H.H.  (19965). Gulliver’s travels: 1726 (Vol. 11). H. Davis (Ed). Blackwell.