The Life and Works of Robert Louis Stevenson

The Early Years of Robert Louis Stevenson

Robert Louis Stevenson was born on November 13, 1850, in Edinburgh, Scotland, into a family renowned for engineering lighthouses. Contrary to familial expectations, Stevenson chose to follow his literary inclinations. Although he studied law at the University of Edinburgh and was admitted to the bar, he never practiced. His education was frequently interrupted by illness, leading to periods of home tutoring. He began his formal education at the Edinburgh Academy and later continued at the university, where he started to lay the groundwork for his writing career with his first published work, "The Pentland Rising," a historical account written at the age of sixteen.

Stevenson's Bohemian Lifestyle and European Travels

Stevenson's university years marked a departure from his parents' devout Presbyterian beliefs and the conventional expectations of his society. Embracing a bohemian lifestyle, he became known for his nonconformist and progressive views. His travels throughout Europe, which were often undertaken for health reasons, exposed him to a variety of cultures and philosophies that would later influence his literary work. It was during his travels in France that he met the American Fanny Van de Grift Osbourne, who would become a pivotal figure in his personal life and literary career.

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.