Allegorical Significance of Defoe’s Novel “Robinson Crusoe.” 

Answer

Write a note on the allegorical significance of Defoe’s novel “Robinson Crusoe.” 

Or, Robinson Crusoe has twofold significance: one is spiritual and another is physical. Analyze critically.

Daniel Defoe’s (1660-1731) novel “Robinson Crusoe,” published in 1719, can be interpreted in various ways. The book has compelling allegorical significance. An allegory is a story in which characters, events, and settings symbolize abstract ideas or concepts, often moral, spiritual, or political in nature. “Robinson Crusoe” serves as an allegory on several levels: a spiritual journey, the triumph of human ingenuity and survival, and the colonial mindset of the time.

Spiritual Allegory: At its core, “Robinson Crusoe” can be read as an allegory of spiritual salvation and redemption. Crusoe’s journey from a rebellious young man to a devout believer mirrors the Christian path of sin, repentance, and salvation. Initially, Crusoe defies his father’s advice and God’s will by setting out to sea, which leads to his downfall. His shipwreck and isolation on the deserted island symbolize a kind of divine punishment for his sins. During his time on the island, Crusoe undergoes a spiritual awakening. He turns to the Bible, finds comfort in reading it, and begins to see his misfortune as the will of God. Crusoe’s repentance and newfound faith is evident in his reflection:

I learned to look more upon the bright side of my condition, and less upon the dark side, and to consider what I enjoyed rather than what I wanted.

This transformation represents the Christian journey from sin to redemption.

Allegory of Human Ingenuity (Creativeness/Inventiveness/Originality) and Survival: Another layer of allegory in “Robinson Crusoe” is the celebration of human ingenuity, resourcefulness, and survival. Crusoe’s ability to use his skills and intelligence to create a life for himself on the island can be seen as an allegory for the human capacity to overcome adversity. He transforms the hostile environment into a habitable place. He cultivates crops, domesticates animals, and builds shelter. He learns to hunt wild goats and birds and catches fish from the sea and nearby streams. Crusoe says,

yet I frequently caught fish enough, as much as I cared to eat;

Crusoe keeps track of time and keeps notes. In this sense, the novel can be read as an allegory for the human spirit’s triumph over nature through perseverance and practical knowledge.

Colonial Allegory: “Robinson Crusoe” also functions as an allegory for European colonialism and imperialism. Crusoe’s attitude towards the island and its original inhabitants, particularly his relationship with Friday, reflects the colonial mindset of the time. Crusoe sees the island as his dominion, a place where he has the right to impose his will and control.

I was king and lord of all this country indefeasibly, and had a right of possession;

He renames parts of the island and considers himself the ruler. It echoes the colonial practice of claiming and renaming territories.

Friday is a native man Crusoe saves from cannibals. He becomes Crusoe’s servant. It highlights the paternalistic attitude of European colonizers towards indigenous peoples. Crusoe teaches Friday English, converts him to Christianity, and essentially imposes his culture upon him.

I [Crusoe] likewise taught him [Friday] to say Master, and then let him know that was to be my name

It reflects the colonial belief in the superiority of European civilization and the mission to “civilize” the so-called savage peoples.

In conclusion, “Robinson Crusoe” is a multifaceted allegory that delves into spiritual redemption, human ingenuity, and colonialism. Defoe’s novel transcends its adventure story framework to offer deeper reflections on the human condition and the power of faith and reason. Its compelling allegorical significance makes “Robinson Crusoe” a timeless and thought-provoking work.