In Liliput, Gulliver makes a parody of many aspects of the world that he finds non-sensical or comical. However, he also creates a world that is believable to the reader, as this will allow the tale to be successful. Five of the elements that Swift employs for this effect are:
- Although the people of Liliput are small, they are similar to humans in all other respects, which allows us to better understand their problems and motivations.
- Liliput is an empire, with a ruling emperor. This is similar to many other nations that have had emperors as rulers.
- Liliputians follow a religion with a scripture and a prophet. They also have internal divisions within believers. This reminds the reader of Christianity.
- The political conflict between the "high-heels" and the "low-heels" are similar to those between the Whigs and the Tories in England.
- The rivalry between Liliput and Blefuscu is similar to that between England and France.