What role does the emperor's horse play in the story?

The role of the emperor's horse in the story primarily reflects the themes of vulnerability and the unpredictable nature of power. When frightened, the horse poses a direct threat to the emperor, showcasing how even a creature that is typically regarded as noble and obedient can become dangerous. This incident underscores the idea that power, represented through the emperor and his steed, can easily be undermined by chaos, highlighting the fragility of authority.

The other answers, while potentially interesting, do not encapsulate the full significance of the horse's role in the narrative. The relationship between the horse and Gulliver or its function for transportation does not convey the deeper implications of power dynamics and fear that the frightened horse does. Additionally, while the horse may carry symbolic weight, its primary importance in the context of the story is tied to its capacity to endanger the emperor, which emphasizes the unpredictable nature of leadership and the potential for any situation to spiral out of control. Thus, this element serves to enhance the satirical commentary on government and power present throughout "Gulliver's Travels."