The Swiss Family Robinson: Analysis of Major Characters
"The Swiss Family Robinson: Analysis of Major Characters" delves into the lives and attributes of the Robinson family, who find themselves shipwrecked on an uninhabited island near New Guinea. The patriarch, Mr. Robinson, embodies middle-class values and strong religious beliefs, utilizing his intelligence and resourcefulness to establish a European-style civilization on the island. His wife, Mrs. Robinson, matches his ingenuity with her bravery and hard work, focusing on the home and agricultural needs of the family. The couple's children each contribute uniquely to their survival: Fritz, the eldest, develops into a courageous young man who ultimately wishes to return to Europe; Ernest, the second son, leverages his passion for natural history to assist the family; Jack, the third child, aids in maintaining the farm; and the youngest, Francis, revels in the joys of childhood amidst their challenges. Additionally, the story introduces Emily Montrose, a young English girl rescued by Fritz, who becomes central to his future plans. Together, these characters portray a blend of individual strengths and familial bonds, illustrating resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.
The Swiss Family Robinson: Analysis of Major Characters
Authors: Johann David Wyss and Johann Rudolf Wyss
First published: Der Schweizerische Robinson, 2 vols., 1812–1813 (The Family Robinson Crusoe, 1814; as The Swiss Family Robinson, 1818); illustrated
Genre: Novel
Locale: An island near New Guinea
Plot: Adventure
Time: Late eighteenth century
Mr. Robinson, an intelligent, resourceful Swiss who, with his family, is shipwrecked on an island near New Guinea. He represents many middle-class virtues and beliefs, including a strong religious sentiment. Because of his good sense, practical knowledge, and understanding of human nature, he and his family succeed in establishing themselves on the island with European-type civilization. When a ship calls at the island, Mr. Robinson decides to remain, hoping that commerce will come and that his little colony will grow and prosper.
Mrs. Robinson, an intelligent, brave, and hardworking woman who is in her way as resourceful as her husband. She improvises a great deal in making her family comfortable and happy. Her tasks are housekeeping and care of the crops and animals. Like her husband, she chooses to remain on the island.
Fritz Robinson, the oldest of the Robinson boys. He grows up on the island to become a gentlemanly, courageous young man. He learns how to accept responsibility and to carry out difficult tasks requiring initiative and courage. Unlike his father, he wants to return to Europe and does so when the opportunity comes.
Emily Montrose, a young English girl shipwrecked on the island. She is rescued by Fritz, who brings her to his family's settlement. Emily is the daughter of an English army officer and is on her way home from India. She and Fritz fall in love and plan to marry upon their return to Europe.
Ernest Robinson, the second of the Robinson boys. He has a great interest in natural history, and his previous studies help the family very much, for he is able to identify plants and animals for various purposes.
Jack Robinson, the third of the Robinson children. He contributes to the family's welfare by helping his mother tend the animals and crops.
Francis Robinson, the youngest of the Robinson children. He is the pet of the rest of the family and thoroughly enjoys his childhood on the island.