Robinson Crusoe Novel Comprehension

Island Life

• Robinson Crusoe spends 28 years on a deserted island, from 1659 to 1687
• The island is located near the mouth of the Orinoco River in present-day Venezuela
• Crusoe's daily life on the island involves:
  • Building shelter and furniture
  • Hunting and gathering food
  • Keeping a journal
  • Observing and interacting with the island's wildlife

Shipwreck

• Crusoe's ship, the Antwerp, sinks in a storm on September 30, 1659
• Crusoe is the only survivor of the wreck, washing up on the shore of the island
• The shipwreck serves as a catalyst for Crusoe's journey of self-discovery and survival

Colonialism

• The novel is set during the British colonial era, and Crusoe's experiences reflect the colonial mindset
• Crusoe views the island and its native inhabitants as resources to be exploited and controlled
• His interactions with Friday, a native he rescues and enslaves, highlight the complexities and contradictions of colonialism

Self-Discovery

• Crusoe's isolation on the island allows him to reflect on his past and re-evaluate his values and priorities
• Through his experiences, Crusoe develops a greater sense of:
  • Gratitude for the simple things in life
  • Appreciation for the beauty of nature
  • Humility and recognition of his own limitations

Survival Skills

• Crusoe develops a range of skills to survive on the island, including:
  • Hunting and fishing
  • Agriculture and farming
  • Shelter-building and construction
  • Navigation and exploration
• Crusoe's resourcefulness and adaptability are key to his survival and eventual rescue