What role does satire play in Gulliver's Travels?

Satire is a central theme in "Gulliver's Travels," and the correct choice highlights how Jonathan Swift uses it to comment on and critique the political systems of his time. Through the absurd and often ridiculous scenarios that Gulliver encounters in various lands, particularly in Lilliput, Swift skillfully exposes the flaws, corruption, and folly inherent in contemporary governance. By exaggerating the absurdities of the political interactions among the tiny inhabitants of Lilliput, Swift prompts readers to reflect on the nature of power, the pettiness of political conflicts, and the impact of ambition on human behavior.

In contrast, while some may view the work as merely entertainment, the deeper political commentary provided through satire is what lends the narrative its enduring significance. The story does not merely celebrate Gulliver’s adventures as heroic; rather, it showcases how he becomes an observer and critic of the societies he visits, leading to a more profound understanding of human failings. Moreover, the scope of the satire extends beyond the culture of Lilliput to encompass broader themes related to moral and ethical questions about leadership and civic responsibility, thereby solidifying choice B as the most accurate representation of Swift's intent in "Gulliver's Travels."