Literary and Historical Analysis: Defoe and Jefferson

Robinson Crusoe: A Study of Individualism

This fragment belongs to the first chapter of Robinson Crusoe (1719), written by Daniel Defoe. It is considered one of the first modern English novels. The text is a prose narrative, written in the form of an autobiographical account, which gives it realism and credibility.

The novel was published in the early 18th century, during a period of commercial expansion, colonial growth, and the rise of the middle class in England. Although the story begins in 1632, it reflects the values of Defoe’s own time:

• Individualism
• Economic ambition
• Social mobility

These ideas are connected to the Enlightenment, which promoted reason, self-improvement, and personal responsibility. In this fragment, Crusoe introduces his family background and explains his strong desire to go to sea against his father’s advice. His father defends the “middle state” as the best condition for happiness, avoiding both poverty and excessive ambition. This conflict between adventure and stability presents one of the main themes of the novel: the tension between individual desire and social order. It also anticipates the suffering that Crusoe’s choices will bring.

The Declaration of Independence: A Political Milestone

This text is an extract from The Declaration of Independence, mainly written by Thomas Jefferson and approved by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. It is a political and historical document that proclaims the independence of the thirteen American colonies from Great Britain.

Historical Context and Conflict

The historical context is the growing conflict between the colonies and the British Crown after the Seven Years’ War. Britain imposed new taxes, such as the Stamp Act, without colonial representation in Parliament, which led to protests under the slogan “no taxation without representation.” Events like the Boston Tea Party increased tensions and finally caused the American War of Independence (1775–1783).

Core Principles and Enlightenment Influence

In this extract, the colonies justify their separation. The text affirms that all men are created equal and have natural and unalienable rights, such as:

• Life
• Liberty
• The pursuit of happiness

These ideas are influenced by Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke and his theory of the social contract. Governments must protect these rights and derive their power from the consent of the governed. If a government becomes tyrannical, people have the right and duty to replace it.