What is one of the punishments considered for Gulliver?

The punishment considered for Gulliver that involves setting fire to his house at night reflects the severity of the conflict between him and the Lilliputian authorities. This option illustrates the extreme measures that the Lilliputians contemplate in response to Gulliver's actions as a foreign giant in their land, representing their desire to exert control and enforce their laws while also showcasing the vulnerabilities and anger of a society faced with an overwhelming, uncontrollable threat.

The other options could imply varying degrees of punishment but do not capture the direct, violent intention expressed by the Lilliputians. For example, imprisonment would indicate a more restrained approach, which does not align with the tension depicted in the narrative. Exiling him forever might suggest a less punitive way to deal with Gulliver's presence, leaning towards a more diplomatic resolution. Forcing him to work for the emperor implies a use of Gulliver's abilities but lacks the element of retribution that setting fire to his house embodies. Thus, the chosen punishment signifies a decisive and aggressive stance taken by the Lilliputians in their perception of justice.