Robinson Crusoe (Oxford World's Classics)

Defoe’s style is often disorienting and seemingly random, as often, the narrative jumps several years in as many sentences. He allows the retrospective voice of Crusoe to be both spatially and temporally free; lending his narrative voice weight, with its mastery of the material. The implied author, Crusoe, is writing this account of his adventures from after the event; it is for this reason that the novel’s tone seems divided. For the most part Crusoe is meticulously descriptive; taking pages to describe how a boat is made, or how he fails to make ink. Conversely there are theological and philosophical tracts that seem out of place in such a richly detailed account. Robinson Crusoe is presented as a factual account of Crusoe’s life; as the title page boldly pronounces.

Robinson Crusoe is more than anything a product of the time it was written in. It contains within it, just under the surface, many of the ideas that were present during the Enlightenment; and it serves as a neat allegory for the colonial spirit of 18th Century England. Ultimately it champions the idea that through a man’s own actions he can truly come to know himself and the world he lives in; and that he must not be bound by the tutelage of past generations.

Read it.


good adventure!   August 26, 2005
Vimonsri Rung.
2 out of 4 found this review helpful

This book is exciting, well described and good organized. The story gives ideas of heading for your goal, that is, don't be afraid of doing what you desire. It gives idea of fighting whatever happen in your life and don't give up easily as the world won't always be on your side. Futhermore, you will get the idea the importance of the word "friend" and you will see that money isn't everything and their value does not last long.
What I don't like in this book is that some situations are discribed in easy ways and make me think why it's so easy. I think it doesn't discribe about Robinson's feeling enough, which I think it is as important as the way of life. I also think that there should be more obstacles, living in an island. Also, it should show how he deal with them and how he feels.
I think it is a good book to read and its point of views are suitable for all ages. You will get a lot of benefits from this adventurous story, apart from its excitement.


A Superb Classic   August 4, 2005
Ruth
1 out of 1 found this review helpful

Inspired by the real life story of Scottish sailor Alexander Selkirk, Daniel Defoe wrote the famous classic Robinson Crusoe.

This is about a man who sets off to find his fortune, travelling on a boat with his mate. But after a series of events that take place, he is driven all over the world, only to be shipwrecked on an isolated Pacific Ocean island. With the provisions left on the ship not far from the island, he manages to create a safe abode and provide himself food. This is a story of how Robinson Crusoe Survives and the events that lead him to freedom.

This is such a cool story and there are condensed versions around so that any one can enjoy it. So suspensful and intriguing, you must, must, must read it!