This must be from a standardized test. The wording is a little confusing, but I'd say it is a metaphor. Google says the definition of metaphor is "a figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable." This is saying something <em>is</em> something, or comparing two items without using "as" or "like". Have a good night/day!
"Swift was satirizing the problems England faced establishing its colonial <span>empire around the globe" would be the best option from the list, but there are others. </span>
