Is Crusoe a colonialist? Justify. 

Answer

Is Crusoe a colonialist? Justify. 

“Robinson Crusoe”  (1719) by Daniel Defoe (1660 -1731) is more than a survival story. It also shows colonial ideas. Colonialism refers to the practice of power over a country or a land, or the people of a land. Crusoe acts like a ruler on the island where he survived. He sees himself as better than others. He treats Friday as a servant. He calls the island his land. These actions show that Crusoe is a colonialist. Let’s explore how Crusoe thinks and acts like a colonial master. 

Island as Own Land: Crusoe thinks the island belongs to him. He says, 

“I was lord of the whole manor.” 

He gives names to places like a king. He builds a home, sets rules, and controls the land. He sees no other person, but still calls it his land. This shows a strong colonial idea. In the text, he never doubts his right to rule. This thinking is common in colonial times. Crusoe becomes the owner of the island without asking anyone.

Master of Friday: Crusoe saves a native man and names him Friday. He does not ask Friday’s real name. He teaches him English and calls him “my servant.” Crusoe says, 

“I showed him my ladder, made him go up, and carried him into my cave, and he became my servant;” 

This shows a master-slave idea. Crusoe does not treat Friday as an equal. He wants Friday to become like a European. This is a clear sign of colonial thinking. Crusoe’s way with Friday shows power, not friendship.

Teach and Change: Crusoe teaches Friday to wear clothes and pray. He teaches him Christian beliefs. He wants Friday to forget his own culture. Crusoe says Friday became “a good Christian.” He feels happy to change on Friday. This is another sign of colonialism. It shows that Crusoe sees his way as the best. He thinks his religion, dress, and food are better. He never