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ALEXANDER SELKIRK / n(1676-1721). Scottish sailor, the basis of Daniel Defoes character
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ALEXANDER SELKIRK / n(1676-1721). Scottish sailor, the basis of Daniel Defoes character
ALEXANDER SELKIRK /n(1676-1721). Scottish sailor, the basis of Daniel Defoes character of Robinson Crusoe. Selkirk discovered, 1709, by signalling with fire to a passing ship from the shore of Mas-a-Tierra, the island in the Juan Fernandez archipelago off the coast of Chile where he had lived alone since 1704: wood engraving, American, 1848
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Media ID 7538089
1709 Alexander Beach Crusoe Daniel Defoe Desert Fire Rescue Rifle Robinson Sailor Scottish Seashore Selkirk Ship Signal Smoke
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases Alexander Selkirk, a Scottish sailor whose extraordinary tale inspired Daniel Defoe's iconic character, Robinson Crusoe. In this wood engraving from 1848, we catch a glimpse of Selkirk's remarkable journey and ultimate rescue. In 1704, Selkirk found himself marooned on the desolate island of Mas-a-Tierra in the Juan Fernandez archipelago off the coast of Chile. Living alone for five years amidst nature's raw beauty and harsh challenges, he became an embodiment of resilience and survival. The image depicts Selkirk standing on a pristine beach with his loyal dog by his side. With determination burning in his eyes, he signals for help using fire as smoke billows into the sky – a desperate plea to passing ships that would change his fate forever. Finally, in 1709, salvation arrived as a ship spotted Selkirk's distress signal and rescued him from isolation. This historic moment marked not only the end of his solitary existence but also ignited Defoe's imagination to create one of literature's most beloved characters. Through this evocative wood engraving captured over a century later by an American artist, we are transported back to witness Selkirk's triumphant return to civilization after enduring unimaginable solitude. It serves as a testament to human spirit and reminds us that even in our darkest moments, hope can be rekindled against all odds.
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