The Life and Works of Robert Louis Stevenson

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Explore the early years, European travels, and literary achievements of Robert Louis Stevenson. Known for classics like 'Treasure Island' and 'Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde', Stevenson's life was marked by a bohemian lifestyle, a quest for health, and a profound impact on English literature. His advocacy in Samoa and contributions to outdoor gear, such as the sleeping bag, showcase his diverse talents and enduring legacy.

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The Life and Works of Robert Louis Stevenson

Early Life and Education

Family Background

Stevenson was born into a family known for engineering lighthouses, but he chose to pursue a literary career instead

Education and Career Choices

University Studies

Stevenson studied law at the University of Edinburgh but never practiced, as his education was often interrupted by illness

Literary Beginnings

At the age of sixteen, Stevenson published his first work, "The Pentland Rising," while studying at the University of Edinburgh

Rejection of Conventional Society

Stevenson's university years marked a departure from his parents' beliefs and societal expectations, as he embraced a bohemian lifestyle and progressive views

Travels and Marriage

Influence of Travel

Stevenson's travels throughout Europe exposed him to various cultures and philosophies that would later influence his writing

Marriage to Fanny Osbourne

Courtship Challenges

Stevenson faced obstacles in his courtship with Fanny Osbourne, who was already married with children

Relocation and Health Concerns

Due to Stevenson's chronic health issues, he and Fanny frequently relocated in search of a climate suitable for his well-being

Literary Recognition

Stevenson's travels and marriage led to a return to the United States, where he gained recognition as a writer

Literary Achievements

Prolific Output

Stevenson wrote essays, poetry, travel writing, and fiction, including adventure novels such as "Treasure Island" and "Kidnapped."

Exploration of Human Nature

Inspiration for "The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde"

Stevenson's preoccupation with the duality of human nature and a dream inspired his novella "The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde."

Influence of Fanny Stevenson

Fanny's feedback on the initial manuscript led to the rewriting of "The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde," delving into themes of identity and morality

Enduring Impact

Stevenson's works have become classics of English literature, appealing to readers of all ages and adapted into various forms of media

Legacy and Impact

Bridging Genres

Stevenson's works bridged adventure narratives and psychological depth, influencing authors like H. Rider Haggard and Joseph Conrad

Commitment to Social Justice

In his later years, Stevenson settled in Samoa and became an advocate for social justice and a respected figure in Samoan culture

Literary and Cultural Significance

Stevenson's literary achievements and commitment to social justice have solidified his status as a significant figure in both the literary world and the history of Samoa

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The author of 'The Pentland Rising,' ______, was born in ______, ______ on ______.

Robert Louis Stevenson

Edinburgh

Scotland

November 13, 1850

Despite his family's legacy in ______, ______ pursued his passion in ______, never practicing his profession after being admitted to the ______.

engineering lighthouses

Stevenson

literature

bar

Stevenson's shift from Presbyterianism

University years led to rejecting parents' devout beliefs, adopting nonconformist views.

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Stevenson's Marriage and Search for Healthier Climes

Stevenson's courtship with Fanny Osbourne was fraught with challenges, as she was already married with children. After her return to the United States, Stevenson, driven by love and a sense of adventure, followed her to California. They married in 1880 after her divorce was finalized. Stevenson's chronic health issues necessitated frequent relocations for the couple, as they sought climates conducive to his well-being. This quest for a healthier environment led them to travel extensively, including stays in Switzerland, France, England, and eventually a return to the United States, where Stevenson began to gain recognition as a writer.

Stevenson's Contribution to Outdoor Gear: The Sleeping Bag

Robert Louis Stevenson's resourcefulness extended beyond his literary talents. He is credited with designing an early version of the sleeping bag, which he used during his travels in the rugged Cévennes region of France. This innovation was documented in his travelogue "Travels with a Donkey in the Cévennes," and it showcased his practical approach to the challenges of itinerant life. Stevenson's sleeping bag was a rudimentary eiderdown bag that allowed him to camp outdoors, a necessity given his limited budget and the sparse accommodations of the time.

Stevenson's Enduring Literary Contributions

Stevenson's literary output was prolific and varied, including essays, poetry, travel writing, and fiction. His adventure novels, such as "Treasure Island," "Kidnapped," and "The Master of Ballantrae," are celebrated for their vivid storytelling and historical detail. "The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde" stands out for its exploration of the human psyche and moral ambiguity. These works have become classics of English literature, appealing to both young and adult readers, and have been adapted into numerous films, plays, and television series.

The Genesis of 'Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde'

The inspiration for "The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde" came to Stevenson in a dream, reflecting his preoccupation with the duality of human nature. The novella's creation was influenced significantly by Fanny Stevenson, who provided critical feedback on the initial manuscript. Her input led to the rewriting of the draft, which Stevenson had initially discarded. The resulting work delves into the complexities of identity and the struggle between good and evil, themes that have contributed to the novella's lasting impact and critical acclaim.

Stevenson's Legacy in Literature and Advocacy in Samoa

Robert Louis Stevenson's impact on English literature is profound, with his works bridging the adventure narratives of authors like H. Rider Haggard and the psychological depth found in the works of Joseph Conrad. In his later years, Stevenson settled in Samoa, where he became deeply involved in the lives and politics of the Samoan people. His advocacy against European imperial interests and his respect for Samoan culture earned him the affectionate title 'Tusitala,' or 'teller of tales.' Stevenson's commitment to social justice and his literary achievements have cemented his status as a significant figure in both the literary world and the history of Samoa.

The Life and Works of Robert Louis Stevenson

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Summary

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The Life and Works of Robert Louis Stevenson