Classic Stories Summarized

Robinson Crusoe

Steven C. Shaffer

Robinson Crusoe, written by Daniel Defoe and first published in 1719, is often regarded as one of the earliest English novels, blending adventure, survival, and spiritual reflection. Set in the 17th century, it follows the life of Robinson Crusoe, a young Englishman who defies his father’s wishes for a stable career to pursue a life at sea, leading to his shipwreck on a deserted Caribbean island. Drawing inspiration from real-life castaway accounts, such as that of Alexander Selkirk, Defoe crafts a narrative that explores themes of providence, self-reliance, repentance, and colonialism. The novel’s detailed, first-person recounting of Crusoe’s 28-year struggle to survive—through resourcefulness, faith, and eventual companionship with the native Friday—captivated readers and established a template for the adventure genre. Its enduring legacy lies in its vivid portrayal of human resilience and moral introspection, reflecting the cultural and religious values of early 18th-century England.

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