Question

Based of the events in Robinson Crusoe, which statement most likely reflects Defoe's beliefs about governors and subjects?

Answer 1

The correct answer is A. The best Masters are the ones who act as fathers towards their subjects.

The relationship between Robinson Crusoe and Friday is akin to that between a father and a child, since Crusoe seeks to transform Friday from a cannibal into a civilized man. The novel reveals the typical attitude of Europeans toward other peoples: they are viewed as backwards and uncivilized, and the "solution" is to make them more European. During the 18th century, this civilizing process was often compared to the education of a child; Immanuel Kant, for example, referred to the Enlightment as the "coming of age" of mankind. In the novle, Crusoe's attitude towards Friday is kind but stern, since he seeks to erradicate Friday's native customs and convert him to Christianity. Crusoe ultimately succeeds, and Friday is assimilated into European culture.

Answer 2

the best masters are the ones who teach their servants to live in a civilized world