Robinson Crusoe Slavery Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Page Number). We used the 2008 Oxford World Classics edition.

Quote #1

The Usage I had there was not so dreadful as at first I apprehended, nor was I carried up the Country to the Emperor's Court, as the rest of our Men were, but was kept by the Captain of the Rover, as his proper Prize, and made his slave, being young and nimble, and fit for his Business. At this surprising Change of my Circumstances from a Merchant to a miserable Slave, I was perfectly overwhelmed; and now I look'd back upon my Father's prophetic Discourse to me, that I should be miserable, and have none to relieve me, which I thought was now so effectually brought to pass, that it could not be worse; that the Hand of Heaven had overtaken me, and I was undone without Redemption. (18)

Before landing on the island, Crusoe is made a slave and recognizes slavery as the lowest condition imaginable for a Christian such as himself.

Quote #2

Here I meditated nothing but my Escape, and what Method I might take to effect it, but found no Way that had the least Probability in it: Nothing presented to make the Supposition of it rational; for I had no body to communicate it to, that would embark with me; no Fellow-Slave, no Englishman, Irishman, or Scotsman there but myself; (18)

Crusoe is alone in his slavery and servitude, contemplating escape.

Quote #3

He offer'd me also 60 Pieces of Eight more for my Boy Xury, which I was loath to take, not that I was not willing to let the Captain have him, but I was very loath to sell the poor Boy's Liberty, who had assisted me so faithfully in procuring my own. (30)

Crusoe doesn't actually sell Xury to the Captain, but instead they strike a bargain. Xury is to be kept in indentured servitude for ten years, and if he converts to Christianity, he will be set free.  We kind of wonder if the Captain keeps his word there.