Daniel Defoe
Daniel Defoe was an English writer, trader, journalist, pamphleteer, and spy, best known for his novel 'Robinson Crusoe'. He is considered one of the earliest proponents of the novel, helping to popularize the form in Britain.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Robinson Crusoe
The Life and Strange Surprizing Adventures of Robinson Crusoe, of York, Mariner: Who lived Eight and Twenty Years, all alone in an un-inhabited Island on the Coast of America, near the Mouth of the Great River of Oroonoque; Having been cast on Shore by Shipwreck, wherein all the Men perished but himself. With An Account how he was at last as strangely deliver'd by Pyrates.
The book is a classic adventure novel about a man who spends 28 years on a remote tropical island near Trinidad, encountering cannibals, captives, and mutineers before being rescued. The story is noted for its realistic portrayal of the protagonist's physical and psychological development and for its detailed depiction of his attempts to create a life for himself in the wilderness. The novel has been interpreted as an allegory for the development of civilization, as well as a critique of European colonialism.
The 69th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
2. Moll Flanders
The Fortunes and Misfortunes of the Famous Moll Flanders
"Moll Flanders" is a novel about the life of a woman in the 17th century who is born in Newgate Prison to a mother who is a convict. Moll is raised by gypsies until she is old enough to take care of herself. She becomes a servant, marries multiple times, becomes a thief, and eventually ends up in Newgate Prison herself. Despite her tumultuous life, she maintains her spirit and cunning, using both to navigate the harsh realities of her world. The book is a commentary on the social and economic realities of the time, particularly for women.
The 351st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
3. A Journal Of The Plague Year
Being Observations or Memorials, Of the most Remarkable Occurrences, As well Publick as Private, which happened in London during the last Great Visitation in 1665
This book provides a detailed account of one man's experiences during the year 1665, when the bubonic plague ravaged London. Written in the form of a journal, it blends fiction with historical fact, offering a vivid portrayal of the city's atmosphere as the disease took hold. The narrative captures the fear, confusion, and chaos of the time, as well as the various responses of the populace, from those who fled to those who stayed to face the epidemic. The author delves into the social and economic impacts of the plague, including the efforts of authorities to contain it, the plight of the poor, and the moral and religious interpretations of the calamity, providing a compelling and immersive glimpse into one of the darkest periods of London's history.
The 2014th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
4. Roxana
The Fortunate Mistress
This novel tells the story of a beautiful and intelligent woman who, after being abandoned by her financially irresponsible husband, navigates the treacherous waters of 18th-century English society to secure her and her children's future. Facing moral and societal challenges, she assumes the identity of "Roxana" and uses her wit, beauty, and charm to ascend the social ladder, becoming the mistress of several wealthy men. Throughout her journey, she grapples with the consequences of her choices, the pursuit of wealth and status, and the desire for independence in a male-dominated world. The narrative explores themes of femininity, morality, and survival, offering a complex portrait of a woman striving to control her own destiny in a time when women's options were severely limited.
The 2373rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
5. A tour thro' the whole island of Great Britain
Divided into Circuits or Journies
This book offers a comprehensive travel guide and social commentary on Great Britain during the early 18th century. The author provides a detailed account of the geography, culture, and economy of the cities and towns he visits, including London, Edinburgh, and York. The book also includes observations on the living conditions, industries, and social customs of the people, offering a unique historical perspective on life in Britain during this period.
The 13361st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
6. A True Relation Of The Apparition Of One Mrs. Veal
The Next Day After Her Death
This intriguing narrative unfolds the mysterious encounter between Mrs. Bargrave and the ghost of her deceased friend, Mrs. Veal. Set in the early 18th century, the story explores themes of friendship, the supernatural, and the afterlife, as Mrs. Veal's apparition appears to settle unfinished business and provide comfort to her living friend. The tale is presented with a sense of realism and detail, blurring the lines between fact and fiction, leaving readers to ponder the nature of reality and the possibility of life beyond death.
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7. A Tour Through The Whole Island Of Great Britain
Divided into Circuits or Journeys. Giving a Particular and Diverting Account of Whatever is Curious and Worth Observation
This travelogue offers a vivid and detailed account of the social, economic, and geographical landscape of early 18th-century Britain, as observed through the eyes of a perceptive traveler. The narrative unfolds as a series of journeys through the diverse regions of England, Scotland, and Wales, capturing the essence of urban and rural life, the burgeoning industrial activities, and the cultural nuances of the time. With keen observations and engaging anecdotes, the work provides a comprehensive snapshot of the nation's transformation during a period of significant change and development.
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8. Daniel Defoe
Daniel Defoe ( c. 1660 – 24 April 1731) was an English writer, journalist, merchant and spy. He is famous for his novels Robinson Crusoe (1719), Moll Flanders (1722) and Roxana: The Fortunate Mistress (1724). He has been seen as one of the earliest proponents of the English novel, and helped to popularise the form in Britain with others such as Aphra Behn and Samuel Richardson. Before the end of 1719, Robinson Crusoe had already run through four editions, and it has gone on to become one of the most widely published books in history, spawning so many imitations that its name is used to define a genre, the Robinsonade. Defoe also wrote many political tracts, was often in trouble with the authorities, and spent a period in prison. Intellectuals and political leaders paid attention to his fresh ideas and sometimes consulted him.
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9. Робинзон Крузо
Who lived Eight and Twenty Years, all alone in an Un-inhabited Island
Молодой моряк терпит кораблекрушение и оказывается единственным выжившим на необитаемом острове, где ему приходится самому добывать пищу, строить жилище, шить одежду и изготавливать орудия, постепенно превращаясь в мастера самообеспечения. Годы одиночества и размышлений о религии и судьбе дополняются знакомством с местным человеком по имени Пятница, с которым развиваются отношения наставничества и власти, совместные схватки с пиратами и спасение пленников. Роман исследует темы выживания, провидения, моральной ответственности и имперской динамики между цивилизацией и «дикостью».
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