Final answer:
The main idea for a summary of the excerpt from Gulliver's Travels by Jonathan Swift is that nature is a true expression of American ideals. Through the author's use of river and shore scenes, the excerpt suggests that to find the true expression of American ideals, one must leave 'civilized' society and connect with nature.
Step-by-step explanation:
Main Idea: The main idea for a summary of the excerpt from Gulliver's Travels by Jonathan Swift is that nature is a true expression of American ideals. Through the author's use of river and shore scenes, the excerpt suggests that to find the true expression of American ideals, one must leave 'civilized' society and connect with nature.
Example: Twain's Huckleberry Finn exemplifies this main idea as the protagonist, Huck, escapes the constraints of society by embarking on a journey along the river, where he encounters the beauty and freedom of nature.
Relevant information: The passage highlights the symbolism of nature and its role in expressing American ideals, linking the setting to the main themes of the book.