Robinson Crusoe (Close reading) REBIRTH AND DELIVERANCE Research Paper

Robinson Crusoe (Close reading) REBIRTH AND DELIVERANCE - Research Paper Example A matter-of-factly attitude attests to much of the aloof charm and consequent pleasurable reading of the book. There are little to no embellishments that make for an almost autobiographical account of it. The reader is acquainted and intimated to the character and all of his struggles and personal conflicts that are revealed in further reading of Daniel Defoe’s classic tale. The theme of cannibalism in the book gives a mental image to the cultural reality that was evident years ago and quite possibly still at play at some remote barbaric villages unheard of. This first appeared in the book when he was offered by some villagers he came across with. â€Å"They offered me some of the flesh, which I declined, pointing out that I would give it them; but made signs for the skin, which they gave me very freely, and brought me a great deal more of their provisions, which, though I did not understand, yet I accepted† (Defoe, p.48). The idea of eating another human being’s flesh is repulsive to say the least. This is something that no normal and civilized person would ever be capacitated to do. This is one of the most stimulating imagery and ultimately reality that Defoe depicted in his telling of the story of â€Å"Robinson Crusoe.† It may not be pleasing by all means but that doesn’t make it untrue. Eating another person whether he is already dead or not would make anyone convulse at the very thought. This is the kind of plot that suspense and horror films are made of. But â€Å"Robinson Crusoe† is neither a suspense thriller nor a horror film, it rings true not just because of the literal connotation it presents but also because of its figurative meaning. Surely there is much barbarity into consuming a person while he was still alive to than when he is already dead. A person who is still filled with emotions and feelings eaten alive by his fellows. Cannibalism is caused by a lack of food