The Influence of Lucians True Story on Jonathan Swifts Gullivers Travels :: Gullivers Travels Essays

The Influence of Lucians True Story on Jonathan Swifts Gullivers TravelsLucians fictional and satiric traveling dialogue, True Story, is a form that has been often copied over the centuries. Elements of his story, such as travel to the moon, inspired later science fiction. His presence in some other world allowed Lucian and his imitators to poke fun at or question the things of this world, whether it be national heroes and philosophers, misplaced patriotism or the more(prenominal) subtle lies of contemporary writers. Beyond symbolism, social commentary and parody , however, Lucians True Story allows the endorser a humorous but interesting flight of fancy to undetected worlds. Jonathan Swifts Gullivers Travels is one of the best known stories of European literature. Although the book is most often read as a childrens fairy tale, the story is intended as satire. In fact, Swift wrote to his friend, Alexander Pope, that the book was intended to vex the world, not to divert it. Swi ft comments on the wars of religion, and a myriad of problems with England, its leadership and its people. numerous allusions can be caught by the careful reader, but many more through the passage of time and Swifts fabulous and incredible descriptions are upset to all but the most perceptive. However, Lucians influence on Gullivers Travels cant be missed. The authors oncoming many of the same institutions and use similar devices to satirize their world. Lucians diatribe against unconditional and dishonest writers, is mirrored in Gullivers Travels. Lucian describes how lots of other writers have shown a preference for the same technique under the guise of reporting their travels oversea they spin yarns of huge monsters, savage tribes, and strange ways of life. Gulliver excuses himself from writing down his adventures amidst the giants of Brobdingnag, by saying ...That nothing could now pass which was not pyrotechnic wherein I doubted, some Authors less consulted Truth than their own Vanity or Interest, or the Diversion of ignorant Readers. That my own Story could contain small(a) besides common Events, without those ornamental Descriptions of strange Plants, Trees, Birds, and other Animals or the bestial Customs and Idolatry of savage People, with which most Writers abound. Swift also borrows Lucians idiom on human anatomy and sex. Lucian describes sex with trees, men being hung by their penises, and other men using their member as a put up on which to fix a sail.