Question

Can you think of any modern-day or recent conflict that contains direct parallels to the satirical history of Lilliput

and Blefuscu? Compare this passage from Gulliver's Travels to any real-life issue between two factions, groups,
or communities, and discuss why Swift's timeless characterization of "Big-endians" and "Little-endians" is still
applicable today. You may use outside research and evidence from the text to support your response.

Answer 1

Yes, there are several modern-day or recent conflicts that contain direct parallels to the satirical history of Lilliput and Blefuscu in "Gulliver's Travels." One such example is the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine.

In "Gulliver's Travels," the conflict between Lilliput and Blefuscu centers around a disagreement over which end of a boiled egg should be cracked first - the big end or the little end. The two factions are divided by this seemingly insignificant difference and engage in a long and bitter war as a result.

Similarly, in the conflict between Israel and Palestine, there are deep-seated disagreements over issues such as land ownership, border control, and religious differences. The two sides are divided by these differences and have been engaged in a long-standing conflict that has resulted in violence, political tension, and human suffering.

Swift's characterization of "Big-endians" and "Little-endians" in "Gulliver's Travels" is still applicable today because it highlights the absurdity of conflicts that arise over seemingly insignificant differences. These differences, no matter how small, can be blown out of proportion and become the basis for long-standing disagreements and violence.

Moreover, Swift's satire highlights the human tendency to divide ourselves into groups based on superficial characteristics, such as race, religion, or nationality. This tendency often leads to discrimination and prejudice, which can fuel conflict and prevent peaceful resolution.

In conclusion, the conflict between Lilliput and Blefuscu in "Gulliver's Travels" serves as a timeless allegory for the human tendency to engage in long-standing conflicts over seemingly insignificant differences. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine is just one example of how Swift's satire is still applicable today, reminding us of the importance of tolerance, understanding, and empathy in resolving conflicts.

Answer 2

One modern-day conflict that contains direct parallels to the satirical history of Lilliput and Blefuscu is the ongoing tension between India and Pakistan over the disputed region of Kashmir.

In Gulliver's Travels, the conflict between Lilliput and Blefuscu centers on a disagreement over which end of a boiled egg should be cracked open. The Lilliputians believed that it should be the smaller end, while the Blefuscudians believed it should be the larger end. This disagreement led to a long and bloody war, with both sides suffering losses and eventually reaching a stalemate.

Similarly, the conflict between India and Pakistan over Kashmir has its roots in a disagreement over territory. Both countries claim ownership of the region and have fought several wars over it. The conflict has led to a significant loss of life and resources on both sides, with no resolution in sight.

Swift's characterization of "Big-endians" and "Little-endians" is still applicable today because it speaks to the human tendency to fight over trivial differences. In the case of Lilliput and Blefuscu, the disagreement over which end of an egg to crack open seems absurd, yet it led to a destructive conflict. Similarly, the conflict between India and Pakistan over Kashmir may seem irrational to outsiders, but it is fueled by deep-seated political, religious, and cultural differences.

Moreover, Swift's satire underscores the dangers of tribalism and groupthink. The Lilliputians and Blefuscudians are so invested in their own viewpoints that they cannot see the other side's perspective. They are willing to go to war and sacrifice countless lives for the sake of a meaningless tradition. This same mentality can be seen in many real-life conflicts, where individuals and groups become entrenched in their beliefs and refuse to consider alternative viewpoints.

In conclusion, the conflict between India and Pakistan over Kashmir contains direct parallels to the satirical history of Lilliput and Blefuscu in Gulliver's Travels. Swift's timeless characterization of "Big-endians" and "Little-endians" remains applicable today because it speaks to the dangers of tribalism, groupthink, and the human tendency to fight over trivial differences.