This thesis aims to provide a comprehensive picture of the religious ideas of the famous English journalist and novelist Daniel Defoe. ... It demonstrates that Defoe's Presbyterian upbringing was influential in his emphasis on the ideas of good work, practical godliness, and the development of good habits.

What was Daniel Defoe's religious background?

England, in 1685, was ruled by James Stuart, a Catholic, who was strongly anti-Protestant. Defoe was a staunch believer in religious freedom and, during the next three years, he published several pamphlets protesting against the king's policies.

How is Robinson Crusoe a religious allegory?

In short we can say that Defoe's “Robinson Crusoe” is a great religious allegory. This shows the inner conflict of Crusoe and portrays the Puritan drama of the soul. This follows the pattern of “Sin → Punishment → Realization → Redeem → Salvation”. …………………