The Friendly Daemon, or the Generous Apparition (eBook, PDF)

Daniel Defoe (c. 1660 - 1731) was an English writer, journalist, and spy, now most famous for his novel 'Robinson Crusoe' (1719). Born as the son of James Foe, a butcher from London, Defoe later added 'De' to his surname to sound more gentlemanly. He was a prolific writer and a keen observer of society, which is reflected in his work. Defoe's 'The Friendly Daemon, or the Generous Apparition' is a lesser-known work that, like many of his publications, takes on a narrative style close to reportage, with nuanced exploration of the human psyche and social relationships. His literary style often combined realism with didacticism, and he is considered an early proponent of the English novel. Defoe's other notable works include 'Moll Flanders' (1722) and 'A Journal of the Plague Year' (1722), which exhibit the same narrative verisimilitude as his famous marooned castaway. Despite the diversity in themes, Defoe's novels and pamphlets are commonly underscored by a detailed examination of contemporary morals, economics, and politics. His writings have been scrutinized by literary scholars and historians alike, decoding the socio-economic tapestries of early 18th-century Britain.