Write a note on the footprint episode in “Robinson Crusoe.”
___ is a notable literary work by ___. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of ___.
Answer
Write a note on the footprint episode in “Robinson Crusoe.”
The footprint episode is an important part of the novel Robinson Crusoe (1719). It happens after Crusoe has lived alone for many years. One day, he sees a man’s footprint on the sand. He becomes very afraid. This event changes his peaceful life. It brings fear, tension, and new action to the story.
Doubt and Confusion: Crusoe tried to think clearly. He thought maybe the footprint was his own. This idea made him feel better. But later he checked and found the footprint was larger than his. Then he became more afraid.
Sudden Fear: Crusoe sees one footprint on the shore. He is shocked and scared. He thinks it may be a wild man or a devil. He runs to his cave and hides. He says,
“I fled into it like one pursued.”
Before this, he was calm. Now, he feels unsafe again. The fear brings a big change in his mind.
Doubt and Panic: Crusoe checks the footprint again and again. He compares it to his foot. He finds it is not his. He becomes sure someone is on the island. He cannot sleep well. Crusoe says,
“I listened, I looked round me, but I could hear nothing”
He thinks of danger all the time. He feels the man may harm him. He starts to keep watch day and night.
Religious Hope: Crusoe remembered God in his fearful time. He read the Bible and found comfort in the verse:
“Call upon Me in the day of trouble, and I will deliver thee.”
This gave him new strength and peace. He began to feel that God would save him. His faith helped him fight his fear for some time.
In short, the footprint episode was a turning point in Crusoe’s life. It changed his calm life into one of fear and care. It also made him more serious, more careful, and more prayerful. This incident shows how one small thing can bring big changes in a man’s life.