Robert Louis Stevenson

Robert Louis Stevenson

Robert Louis Stevenson
1850 -1894

Robert Louis Stevenson Biography

Robert Louis Stevenson (November 13, 1850 – December 3, 1894) was a Scottish novelist, poet, essayist, and travel writer whose works have left a lasting mark on world literature. Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, Stevenson was the only son of a prominent lighthouse engineer. From a young age, he suffered from chronic respiratory illnesses, a challenge that would shape much of his life and writing. Despite his frailty, Stevenson’s imagination flourished, and his passion for storytelling was evident early on.

           

After earning a law degree, Stevenson chose to follow his literary ambitions. His adventures across Europe and the South Pacific influenced many of his most famous works. Treasure Island (1883), written for his stepson, became a landmark in adventure literature. Later, the psychological thriller Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde (1886) captivated readers and explored themes of duality and morality.

           

Stevenson’s literary output was prolific, spanning novels, essays, and travelogues. Works like Kidnapped, The Master of Ballantrae, and his poetry collection A Child’s Garden of Verses showcased his versatility as a writer. Stevenson was also a devoted traveler, and his journey to the South Pacific led him to settle in Samoa, where he was affectionately called “Tusitala” (Teller of Tales) by the locals. His final years were spent writing and advocating for Samoan independence.

           

Robert Louis Stevenson passed away at the age of 44 in Samoa. Despite his short life, his works continue to inspire generations of readers. He remains one of the most beloved authors of adventure and psychological fiction.

           

Trivia About Robert Louis Stevenson

           
  • Stevenson wrote Treasure Island as a serialized story to entertain his stepson.
  • He was buried on Mount Vaea in Samoa, where his epitaph reads, “Here he lies where he longed to be.”
  • Stevenson was close friends with other literary figures, including Henry James.
           

Famous Quotes by Robert Louis Stevenson

           
  • “Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant.”
  • “Life is not a matter of holding good cards, but of playing a poor hand well.”
           

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

           

Who was Robert Louis Stevenson?

           

Robert Louis Stevenson was a Scottish author renowned for adventure stories like Treasure Island and the psychological novella Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.

           

What were Robert Louis Stevenson’s most notable works?

           

Stevenson’s most famous works include Treasure Island, Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, Kidnapped, and A Child’s Garden of Verses.

           

What was Robert Louis Stevenson known for?

           

He was celebrated for creating timeless adventure tales, exploring psychological themes, and inspiring generations of readers and writers alike.

           

Related Literary Movements

           

Robert Louis Stevenson was closely associated with Victorian literature and the adventure fiction genre.

           

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