Robinson Crusoe. The First Chapter

First Chapter Excerpt Analysis

The provided text appears to be the beginning of "Robinson Crusoe, The First Chapter". It introduces the narrator and his family background.

Paragraph A Analysis:

'Before I begin my story, I would like to tell you a little about myself. I was born in the year 1632, in the city of York in the north of England. My father was German, but he came to live and work in England. Soon after that, he married my mother who was English. Her family name was Robinson, so, when I was born, they called me Robinson, after her.'

This paragraph introduces the narrator, Robinson Crusoe. It establishes his birth year (1632), birthplace (York, England), and his family's heritage (German father, English mother). The detail about his name being Robinson because his mother's maiden name was Robinson is also included.

Paragraph B Analysis:

'My father did well in his business and I went to a good School. He wanted me to get a good job and live a quiet, comfortable life.'

This paragraph describes the narrator's early life and his father's aspirations for him. His father was successful in business, ensuring that Robinson received a good education. The father's wish was for his son to secure a good job and lead a peaceful, comfortable existence.

Unnamed Paragraph Analysis:

'I want to be a sailor and go to the sea," I told my mother and father. They were very unhappy about this. "Please, don't go,"'.

This snippet reveals Robinson Crusoe's desire to become a sailor and explore the sea, a wish that was met with strong disapproval from his parents.