The Imperialistic Views of Robinson Crusoe
             In Robinson Crusoe, Daniel Defoe illustrates the beliefs of a 18th century British citizen. Robinson Crusoe, stranded on an island, takes it upon himself to better those around him. He takes the time to educate Friday and teach him "civil" ways. Crusoe feels the burden of a British citizen for he believes that it is necessary and a Christian thing to do. Crusoe views Friday as an inferior being and feels that he should better this being by showing him the true way of life that is exemplified by a gentleman. This imperial view was held by most Britain and was what they felt as a moral obligation to show inferior people the correct way.
             Robinson Crusoe sees his situation as a time to establish another branch of the British Empire and appointed himself king. He viewed everything on the island as being his. Robinson Crusoe thought himself to be the most superior being therefore is was necessary to guide everything in the British manner. When he discovers and saves Friday, he is wary of letting someone of such meager lifestyle stay with him. Yet Crusoe still takes the time to educate this man and teach him how to serve his master. Crusoe named Friday to remind him of the day that he saved his life. This was supposed to brand Friday with an everlasting debt to Crusoe. Another imperialist action that Crusoe takes is teaching Friday English. He makes absolutely no effort to learn the language of Friday's people and the first word that he teaches Friday is Master. This is so that Friday will recognize the fact that Crusoe is his superior. After Robinson Crusoe has sufficiently educated Friday he instructs Friday in the ways of Christianity. This is a moral action that Crusoe takes in order to save Friday's soul. Yet in other aspects of their relationship Crusoe often contradicts these imperialistic beliefs.
             Crusoe utilizes Friday as a tool, by making
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