Final Answer:
When Gulliver praises the mathematicians and the emperor for figuring correctly how much to feed him, the author is actually highlighting the absurdity of the situation and criticizing the excessive focus on trivial matters in the face of more pressing issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
In this scene, Swift is using satire to critique the misplaced priorities of the society Gulliver encounters. The mathematicians and the emperor’s meticulous calculations about Gulliver’s food intake are meant to be seen as ridiculous, emphasizing their preoccupation with trivial details while ignoring more significant problems. This serves as a commentary on human nature and societal norms, where people often get caught up in insignificant matters while neglecting more important issues.
Swift’s intention here is to draw attention to the absurdity of the situation and to provoke reflection on the values and priorities of contemporary society. By exaggerating the meticulousness of the mathematicians and the emperor in calculating Gulliver’s food requirements, Swift aims to highlight the irrationality and shortsightedness of their actions. This satirical approach allows Swift to convey his criticism in a humorous and thought-provoking manner, prompting readers to consider their own behaviors and societal norms.
Overall, Swift uses this episode to satirize human tendencies towards obsession with trivial matters at the expense of more critical concerns. Through this critique, he encourages readers to reflect on their own behaviors and societal values, ultimately aiming to provoke a reevaluation of priorities and a deeper understanding of human nature.