Colonialism in Robinson Crusoe

英语2101张媛媛

Robinson Crusoe was written in the 18th century. During this period, Britain was in the stage of rapid development of capitalism. The emerging bourgeoisie actively expanded its colonies and carried on primitive capital accumulation. Robinson Crusoe reflects the development process and characteristics of British colonialism to a certain extent.

At the beginning of this novel, Robinson, who was unsatisfied with the status quo and eager for adventure, wanted to embark on a voyage, which reflected the colonial ambition of Britain at that time. After Robinson landed on the desert island, his possession of the means of production and the transformation of the island also reflected capitalism's greed for the means of production.

The encounter between Robinson and Friday represents the collision of two totally different civilizations: the former is the western civilization represented by the bourgeoisie, while the latter is the traditional civilization represented by the primitive nation. The former dominates the latter by overwhelming superiority. The relationship between Robinson and Friday reflects the unequal and antagonistic relationship between colonizer and colonized. Robinson indoctrinated Friday with the so-called "civilization" as a master, making him lose his freedom and judgment. By "civilizing" Friday, Robinson obtained free labor. "Plundering in the name of enlightenment" shows Robinson's typical colonial mentality.

To sum up, from this novel, we can see the epitome of the overseas colonization of the British bourgeoisie in the 18th century.