Literature
In Gullivers Travels: Who is the Emperor and What Does He Represent?
In Gulliver's Travels: Who is the Emperor and What Does He Represent?
Jonathan Swift's inventive and often satirical work, Gulliver's Travels, is rich in symbolism. One of the most intriguing characters and a key source of satire is the Lilliputian Emperor, who mirrors the historical figure of King George I of England. Swift masterfully employs this character to comment on political and social issues of his time. Let's delve deeper into this portrayal and its implications.
The Lilliputian Emperor's Analogies to George I
George I, the de facto ruler of England during Swift's active period, was a strongly pro-Whig monarch. This fact is reflected in the character of the Emperor of Lilliput. The Lilliputian Emperor's behavior and policies often mirror the political agenda and personal traits of King George I, serving as a satirical commentary on the state of the British monarchy.
Political Allegiances and Party Loyalties
One of the central political issues of the time was the rivalry between the Whigs and Tories, with George I firmly supporting the Whigs. In Gulliver's Travels, the Emperor of Lilliput is portrayed as uncompromising in his loyalty to the center (the Sun), which can be interpreted as a metaphor for the Whigs. The Whigs were known for their moderate governance and preference for a balanced coalition in government. The Emperor's strict factionalism and intolerance towards dissent is a clear satirical nod to the political intensity and perhaps even the extremism of the Whig faction.
Divisions in Lilliputian Society
The division between the Emperor and his court (the High Court of Fushigry) symbolizes the political divisions in England. The Emperor's decision to exile the Duke of Nydlow (Duke of Kendal) for criticizing his policies not only reflects the courts' tendency to suppress dissent but also serves as a critique of the British government's tendency to stifle political debate and free speech.
Swift's Political Philosophy and Critique
Swift was a staunch critic of many aspects of the British system, both politically and socially. Through the character of the Emperor, he pokes fun at the king's autocratic tendencies and the often chaotic governance of the court. The Emperor's extreme measures, such as ordering Crimea to be built up to the sky, or his strict and rigid policies, are satirical representations of the excessive and sometimes whimsical state actions that Swift found troubling.
Historical Context and Literary Significance
Swift wrote Gulliver's Travels in the early 18th century, a period marked by significant political and social changes in England. The novel, with its layered meanings and complex characters, was designed not only as a travelogue but also a critique of contemporary society. The portrayal of the Lilliputian Emperor as a figurehead for George I and the Whig party adds depth to the narrative, making it a rich source for understanding both Swift's literary technique and the political climate of his time.
Conclusion
The Lilliputian Emperor in Gulliver's Travels is a multifaceted character that serves as a powerful tool for satirical criticism. By representing King George I and the Whig party, Swift effectively uses this character to expose the flaws and excesses of the British political system. The novel remains relevant for its ability to satirize power structures and societal norms, making it a timeless work of literature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is the Lilliputian Emperor in Gulliver's Travels?
The Lilliputian Emperor in Gulliver's Travels is a symbolic character who represents King George I of England during the period of the novel's publication. The Emperor's policies and behavior reflect the political and social turmoil of the time, particularly the dominance of the Whig party.
Q: How does the Emperor of Lilliput relate to King George I?
The Emperor of Lilliput is a direct satire of King George I of England. His uncompromising factionalism and intolerance towards dissent mirror the political fervor of the Whig party, while his extreme measures and rigid policies reflect the often whimsical nature of royal governance in England during Swift's era.
Q: Why did Jonathan Swift write Gulliver's Travels?
Jonathan Swift wrote Gulliver's Travels as a satirical commentary on the political and social issues of his time. By using the character of the Lilliputian Emperor to represent King George I and the Whig party, Swift was able to critique the flaws and excesses of the British system without resorting to open criticism.