What does the emperor of Lilliput want Gulliver to do for him?

The emperor of Lilliput wants Gulliver to capture the Blefuscudian fleet because this action is strategically vital for Lilliput's security and dominance. In the tale, Lilliput and Blefuscu are engaged in a longstanding conflict, and the Blefuscudian fleet poses a direct threat to Lilliput. By capturing this fleet, Gulliver would significantly weaken Blefuscu’s military capabilities, thereby bolstering Lilliput's position and ensuring its safety. This request highlights the emperor's reliance on Gulliver, a giant among the tiny Lilliputians, to accomplish tasks that are beyond the capabilities of his own citizens. Gulliver's physical strength and size make him the perfect candidate to take on such dangerous missions that could secure Lilliput's future. Thus, the desire for Gulliver to capture the Blefuscudian fleet underscores the theme of reliance on strength in a world where size and power dynamics play a crucial role.