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what did the hounynhnhnms think about gulliver?

Houyhnhnms lived in a society where creatures, biologically similar to Gulliver were the most uncouth and savage creatures who did not have an ounce of reason in them. When they first encountered Gulliver they thought him to be such a creature himself but on close observation which shows their proclivity towards being open-minded, made them realize that he was quite different. They were puzzled by his clothes and his ability to learn - a tendency which none of the savage creatures had shown. They were gentle and kind towards him by offering him food and a place to live. However, not all Houyhnhnms viewed his treatment by the grey Houyhnhnm favourably and it became a matter of debate as to how to treat him in the society.

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The Houynhnhnms were amazed that Gulliver,who they thought to be a Yahoo, was teachable, civil and clean. These qualities were altogether opposite to the qualities possessed by a Yahoo's. The houyhnhnms, who came to see Gulliver or talk to him could hardly believe him to be a Yahoo, because his body had a different covering from the others of his kind. They were astonished to see him without the usual skin or hair, except on his head, face, and hands. They were perplexed about his clothes and wondered whether they were a part of his body, for Gulliver never took themoff till the family were asleep and got them on before they woke in the morning.

Hope this helps!

PS. I'm not a parent.

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