Question

Does the king think that men in Gulliver's England are qualified for their positions? Why? What can you conclude is Swift's opinion about those in power in England?

Answer 1

The king doesn't believe the men in power of England are most likely right t be there. Gulliver's Travels poses the question of whether physical or moral righteousness should be the governing factor in the country. Smith shows, through the king that he doesn't approve the current government body of England.

Answer 2

The King of Brobdingnag is horrified to hear the stories that Gulliver tells of England. The people of Brobdingnag are peaceful, and they do not engage in war if they can avoid it. He concludes that England must be full of barbarians, and that the leaders are not qualified to rule.

This reaction is probably a veiled representation of Swift's own opinions of England. Swift is likely to believe that England is indeed too violent and that its leaders are not fit to rule.