Stylistic Features of Humor in English Satirical Texts: a Study of Jonathan Swift’s Gulliver’s Travels

Abstract

Humor, as a literary device, serves multiple functions in English literature, ranging from entertainment to social critique. Satire, in particular, relies on humor to expose human follies, societal vices, and political corruption, often combining wit, irony, and exaggeration. This study examines the stylistic features of humor in Jonathan Swift’s Gulliver’s Travels, a seminal work of English satire, emphasizing how linguistic choices, narrative techniques, and rhetorical strategies construct humor and convey social commentary. By analyzing lexical selection, syntactic structures, figurative language, and pragmatic devices, the paper identifies key stylistic mechanisms through which humor is produced and perceived. Furthermore, it explores how Swift’s humor engages readers cognitively and affectively, fostering reflection on human nature, governance, and cultural practices. The study underscores the interplay between linguistic artistry and socio-political critique, highlighting the enduring significance of satire as both an aesthetic and ethical literary tool.