Daniel Defoe is widely known as the author of the classic English novel, Robinson Crusoe. However, many people are unaware that this iconic book was actually first written in Dutch by a man named Schreef Robinson Crusoe.
Schreef Robinson Crusoe was born in the Netherlands in the late 17th century. He was a multilingual individual who spoke Dutch, English, and French fluently. Growing up, he had a deep fascination with exploration and adventure, which led him to pursue a career as a sailor.
During his time at sea, Crusoe had numerous encounters with pirates, storms, and other dangerous situations. These experiences not only shaped his character but also ignited his passion for storytelling. Crusoe was an excellent storyteller, captivating his fellow sailors with his tales of adventure and survival.
In 1719, Crusoe decided to put his stories on paper. Drawing inspiration from his own experiences and the maritime culture of the time, he wrote a novel that would later become known as Robinson Crusoe. However, instead of writing it in English, Crusoe chose to pen the book in his native language, Dutch.
The Dutch version of Robinson Crusoe was an instant success in the Netherlands. Readers were enthralled by the vivid descriptions of Crusoe’s shipwreck, his solitary life on the island, and his eventual rescue. The novel was praised for its realistic portrayal of survival and its exploration of themes such as loneliness, faith, and human resilience.
Despite the popularity of the Dutch version, it was not until a year later that Robinson Crusoe was translated into English by an anonymous translator. The English version quickly gained international recognition and became a literary sensation. It is this version that has been widely read and studied ever since.
Schreef Robinson Crusoe’s original Dutch manuscript, unfortunately, did not survive the test of time. It is believed to have been lost or destroyed over the centuries, leaving only the translated versions behind. This loss has led to a lack of recognition for Crusoe’s contribution to the literary world.
However, it is important to acknowledge Crusoe’s role in the creation of Robinson Crusoe. His firsthand experiences, his ability to craft compelling stories, and his decision to write the novel in Dutch all played a significant part in shaping the iconic character of Robinson Crusoe.
While the translated versions of Robinson Crusoe continue to be celebrated, it is essential to remember the Dutch sailor who first brought this captivating story to life. Schreef Robinson Crusoe may not be a household name, but his contribution to literature should not be forgotten. His original Dutch manuscript may be lost, but his legacy lives on through the enduring popularity of Robinson Crusoe.