Theme of Sin, Punishment, and Repentance in the Novel “Robinson Crusoe.”

Answer

Write a note on the theme of sin, punishment, and repentance in the novel “Robinson Crusoe.”

Daniel Defoe’s (1660-1731) novel “Robinson Crusoe,” published in 1719, is a story that can be read on many levels, one of which is the exploration of the theme of sin, punishment, and repentance. This theme is central to the protagonist’s journey and is woven throughout his experiences on the deserted island. Through Crusoe’s story, Defoe illustrates the Christian narrative of falling into sin, facing divine punishment, and ultimately finding redemption through repentance.

Disobedience and Obstinacy: Robinson Crusoe was a stubborn boy who wanted to see the whole world through voyages. His father and mother urged him not to go to sea against their desires. But ignoring his parents’ advice, Crusoe escaped from his home without their blessings. Crusoe thought it was his first sin to disobey his parents. 

Violation of Oaths: On his way to London, Crusoe’s ship was about to collapse, and Crusoe became so terrified that he vowed to return home and never set foot on the ship. But as the weather improved and the sea became calm all around, he forgot all his vows just like a drunkard. 

In a word, as the sea was returned to its smoothness of surface… my fears and apprehensions of being swallowed up by the sea being forgotten, and the current of my former desires returned,

Upon arriving in London, he thought about returning home but feared that his neighbors would laugh at his failure if they saw him returning from his adventure. So, he changed his mind and was determined to go to sea again.

The Avarice: Crusoe committed the third sin in Brazil, where he made a fortune by producing tobacco and sugar. However, he is not satisfied with the middle state of life. He wanted to be very rich overnight. So, he decided to go to sea again for the slave and gold trade.

Punishment: Crusoe’s punishment for his sin is severe and comes in the form of a series of misfortunes. He is shipwrecked on a deserted island. This isolation can be seen as a form of divine punishment. The island becomes a place where he must confront his past mistakes and suffer the consequences:

I was in complete darkness and ignorance; I was first a shipwrecked man, a prisoner without a help, and could hardly see a prospect of being delivered

During his time on the island, Crusoe faces numerous hardships. He struggles to find food and shelter. He stays in constant fear of wild animals and isolation. These trials can be seen as a form of penance, a period of suffering that he must endure as a consequence of his sins.

Realization and Repentance: Crusoe’s journey toward repentance begins during his long and solitary stay on the deserted island. He reflects deeply on his past actions, particularly his disobedience to his father’s wishes and pursuit of a seafaring life. Crusoe thought it was his first sin to disobey his parents.

I consulted neither father or mother nay more, nor so much as sent them word of it as they might, without asking God-s blaming, of my father’…

This introspection leads Crusoe to recognize his sins and shortcomings. 

Seeking Forgiveness: As Crusoe grapples with his guilt, he turns to the Bible, which he finds among the salvaged items from the shipwreck. The scriptures become a source of comfort and guidance. It helps him understand the gravity of his disobedience and the importance of seeking God’s forgiveness. 

my heart was not only comforted, but I was guided and encouraged to pray earnestly to God for deliverance:

Crusoe begins to pray earnestly, asking God to pardon his sins and grant him mercy. His prayers and reading of the Bible bring him a sense of peace and hope. It marks the beginning of his spiritual rebirth. This process of seeking forgiveness and developing a personal relationship with God signifies a profound change in Crusoe’s character.

In conclusion, “Robinson Crusoe” is a powerful narrative of sin, punishment, and repentance. Crusoe’s journey from rebellious youth to devout Christian reflects the broader Christian theme of falling into sin, facing divine punishment, and ultimately finding redemption through sincere repentance.