Daniel Defoe

Daniel Defoe Biography

Daniel Defoe (c. 1660 – April 24, 1731) was an English writer, journalist, and spy, best known for his novel Robinson Crusoe. Born Daniel Foe in London, he later added the aristocratic-sounding "De" to his surname. Defoe's early life was marked by significant historical events, including the Great Plague of London and the Great Fire of London, which he witnessed as a child.

Defoe was educated at a dissenting academy, preparing for a career in the ministry, but he chose to become a merchant instead. His ventures in trade, however, were met with mixed success, leading to multiple bankruptcies. Turning to writing, Defoe became a prolific pamphleteer and journalist, producing over 500 books, pamphlets, and journals on various topics, including politics, crime, religion, marriage, psychology, and the supernatural.

In 1702, Defoe published the satirical pamphlet The Shortest Way with the Dissenters, which led to his arrest and placement in a pillory. Despite this, he continued his writing and political activities, often working as a secret agent. In 1719, at the age of 59, Defoe published Robinson Crusoe, a novel that achieved immediate success and has since become a classic of English literature. He followed this with other notable works, including Moll Flanders and A Journal of the Plague Year.

Defoe's later years were spent writing on a wide range of subjects, reflecting his diverse interests and experiences. He passed away on April 24, 1731, in London, leaving behind a legacy as one of the founders of the English novel and a keen observer of the social and political landscape of his time.

Trivia About Daniel Defoe

• Defoe's birth name was Daniel Foe; he added "De" to his surname to sound more aristocratic.
• He was a prolific writer, producing over 500 works during his lifetime.
• Defoe worked as a spy for the English government, gathering intelligence in Scotland prior to the Act of Union.
• He was placed in a pillory for seditious libel but reportedly had flowers thrown at him by the crowd instead of harmful objects.

Famous Quotes by Daniel Defoe

• "The soul is placed in the body like a rough diamond, and must be polished, or the luster of it will never appear."
• "All men would be tyrants if they could."
• "In trouble to be troubled, Is to have your trouble doubled."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Daniel Defoe?

Daniel Defoe was an English writer, journalist, and spy, best known for his novel Robinson Crusoe. He was a prolific author who produced works on a wide range of topics, including politics, crime, religion, and economics.

What is 'Robinson Crusoe' about?

Robinson Crusoe is a novel about a man who is shipwrecked on a deserted island and spends 28 years surviving and building a life for himself before being rescued. The story explores themes of survival, self-reliance, and human ingenuity.

What other notable works did Defoe write?

In addition to Robinson Crusoe, Defoe wrote several other significant works, including Moll Flanders, A Journal of the Plague Year, and Roxana. These novels often explore themes of crime, morality, and social issues.

Related Literary Movements

Daniel Defoe is often associated with the rise of the English novel in the early 18th century. His works are considered early examples of realistic fiction, and he is regarded as one of the founders of the novel as a literary genre. Defoe's writing also reflects the values and concerns of the Enlightenment, emphasizing reason, individualism, and empirical observation.

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