Robinson Crusoe

Daniel Defoe’s 18th century novel, Robinson Crusoe, has maintained its dual status as literary class and engaging adventure narrative since its first printing. After rejecting the prospect of a career on land, Robinson Crusoe sets out to sea. Shipwrecks, pirates, and being sold into slavery do not dampen Crusoe’s ambition or desire for adventure; despite finding prosperity as a plantation owner, he seeks another sea voyage. Defoe paints a detailed picture of Crusoe’s resulting life as a castaway and his eventual return to civilization, giving the story philosophical substance with intelligent explorations of the individual’s role in society.