Robinson Crusoe
Robinson Crusoe
Robinson Crusoe
Friday shares valuable information about the cannibals and reveals that
there are other survivors, including his own father. Crusoe helps save
the other survivors and defeats a group of cannibals. Eventually, they
encounter mutineers from a ship, and with Friday's help, Crusoe
manages to take control of the situation. He arranges for their return to
England.
Back in England, Crusoe discovers that his family has passed away,
except for his two sisters. He also finds out that his investments in
Brazil have been profitable. After settling his affairs, Crusoe considers
returning to Brazil but decides against it. He marries, but his wife dies,
and he eventually embarks on a trading expedition to the East Indies.
Before leaving, he revisits his island and finds it flourishing under the
governance of the rescued Spaniards.
Capitalism and Exploitation: Capitalism and the pursuit of profit form the
driving force behind Crusoe's actions. His slave-gathering trip to Africa
and the establishment of his plantation in Brazil display the capitalist
mindset of exploiting both natural resources and human labour for
personal gain. The commodification of slaves and their reduction to
mere objects reflect the dehumanizing effects of capitalist systems.
"Robinson Crusoe" thereby reinforces the notion that the accumulation
of wealth takes precedence over ethical considerations, exacerbating
social disparities.
Alienation and Isolation: The novel explores the theme of alienation and
isolation, reflecting the consequences of capitalist systems. Crusoe's
prolonged solitude on the deserted island signifies the isolation that can
arise under capitalism. While initially experiencing a religious
awakening, Crusoe gradually becomes estranged from society,
detached from communal bonds, and dependent solely on himself. This
narrative thread serves as a critique of the individualism and
atomization intrinsic to capitalist societies, where meaningful
connections and collective well-being are often compromised.