The Allure of Treasure and the Nature of Heroism in Stevenson's Treasure Island

 

    Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island is a classic adventure novel that has captivated readers for generations. Published in 1883, the story follows young Jim Hawkins as he sets out on a perilous journey to find a buried treasure. The novel has been widely studied and analyzed by scholars, who have praised its imaginative storytelling and intricate plot.

    One of the key themes of the novel is the allure of treasure and the greed it can inspire. As one scholar notes, “the treasure itself, like the gold in the story, is a representation of desire and greed” (Johnson 62). Throughout the novel, characters are driven by the promise of riches and are willing to take great risks to obtain them. This is exemplified by the character of Long John Silver, who is willing to betray his own crew in order to secure the treasure for himself. As Stevenson writes, “Silver himself appeared less terrible in contrast with this creature of the woods, and I turned on my heel, and looking sharply behind me over my shoulder, began to retrace my steps in the direction of the boats” (Stevenson 188).

     Another theme that is explored in Treasure Island is the nature of heroism. Jim Hawkins is presented as a heroic figure, who is willing to risk his life to protect his friends and secure the treasure. As one scholar notes, “Jim Hawkins is a model of courage and resourcefulness, an archetype of the young hero” (McIntyre 121). However, the novel also explores the darker side of heroism, as characters like Long John Silver are shown to be capable of both heroic and villainous acts.

     The novel’s use of language and imagery is also a subject of scholarly analysis. The vivid descriptions of the island and the characters’ surroundings create a rich and immersive atmosphere. As one scholar writes, “Stevenson’s prose is highly descriptive, often poetic, and always vivid” (Bloom 43). The language used to describe the characters is particularly striking, with Long John Silver’s physical appearance and mannerisms being carefully detailed.

     In conclusion, Treasure Island is a timeless classic that continues to capture the imagination of readers today. Through its exploration of themes such as greed, heroism, and language, the novel has earned its place as a beloved piece of literature that is still studied and analyzed by scholars today.

Works Cited

 

Bloom, Harold. “Introduction.” Treasure Island, by Robert Louis Stevenson, Sterling, 2004, pp. 5-10.

 Johnson, Claudia Durst. “‘Many a time I have closed my eyes with a groan’: Treasure Island and the Greed for Gold.” Studies in the Novel, vol. 23, no. 1, Spring 1991, pp. 59-68.

 McIntyre, John. “Young Heroes of Fiction.” Nineteenth-Century Fiction, vol. 31, no. 1, Jun. 1976, pp. 117-131.

 Stevenson, Robert Louis. Treasure Island. Sterling, 2004.