Geschiedenis van Robinson-Crusoé / Histoire de Robinson-Crusoe 1833 - 1911

This is a colorful print depicting the story of Robinson Crusoe, crafted by Brepols & Dierckx, son, in Turnhout. Observe how Crusoe is portrayed alongside indigenous figures, a visual dynamic laden with historical context. Consider the motif of the 'noble savage', a concept that emerged during the Enlightenment. It romanticizes the idea of humans living in harmony with nature, yet it carries undertones of colonialism. Here, it’s seen in Crusoe's interactions with Friday. It's reminiscent of the shepherd in ancient Greek Arcadia who, in his rustic innocence, possessed profound wisdom. Yet, such imagery often imposes a Western gaze upon non-Western cultures. Such images tap into our collective memory, stirring subconscious reactions linked to cultural encounters and the complexities of human relationships. The exotic island, the act of survival, and the formation of a unique societal structure all become part of a cyclical narrative that resonates even today. The same trope has since resurfaced in modern pop culture, in films like Tarzan, revealing our persistent fascination with primal life and cultural clashes.