illustration of a man standing on an island and looking out at the ocean with the title Robison Crusoe written in the sky

Robinson Crusoe

by Daniel Defoe

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"My Man Friday"

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. . . having now more courage, and consequently more curiosity, I took my man Friday with me, giving him the sword in his hand, with the bows and arrows at his back . . . and away we marched to the place where these creatures had been. . . .

This passage from Robinson Crusoe highlights the evolving relationship between Crusoe and Friday. Crusoe's newfound "courage" and "curiosity" signify his growing confidence and sense of adventure after years of isolation. By gifting Friday a sword and equipping him with bows and arrows, Crusoe not only acknowledges Friday's presence as a companion but also bestows upon him a symbol of trust and responsibility. This act suggests a shift from seeing Friday merely as a servant to regarding him as a partner in exploration. The phrase "where these creatures had been" underscores the persistent threat and unknowns that Crusoe faces on the island, while simultaneously illustrating his determination to reclaim control over his environment. The narrative thus portrays Crusoe's quest not just for survival, but for mastery and understanding of the world around him, with Friday as an integral part of that journey.

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