Discussion questions – Gulliver’s Travels Book I Chapters V – VIII: How are persons chosen for employment in Lilliput
How are persons chosen for employment in Lilliput? What comment is Swift making on society here? Why is belief in God considered necessary to employment in government?
Describe the notions concerning parenthood, How do the nurseries for gentlemen differ from those of ordinary people? How does the upbringing of boys differ from that of girls?
Walpole’s first wife, Catherine Shorter, was somewhat suspect of treating her marriage vows lightly. Walpole, however, was notorious for his unconcern. How is Swift being ironic and how does he make the entire situation ridiculous in his defense of “…the reputation of an excellent lady…”?
