Daniel Defoe's Enlightenment experiment continues in the second half of Robinson Crusoe. As we continue our survey, we'll answer the following questions:
- How does the novel reflect the Enlightenment view of progress as vital for the development of human civilization?
- Why is there a notable lack of women throughout Robinson Crusoe?
- In what sense can the novel be considered an updated, Enlightenment version of the Christian story of the prodigal son?
Recommended Reading: Defoe, Daniel. Robinson Crusoe. 1719. Reprint, New York: Modern Library, 2001.
This week's episode of The Pillars is generously sponsored by Denise and Camillo Santomero. If you are interested in sponsoring an episode of The Pillars, we invite you to join the Tikvah Ideas Circle by clicking here.
The Pillars: Jerusalem, Athens, and the Western Mind