An analysis of the influence of the Quakers on Daniel Defoe
Abstract
Every biographer of Daniel Defoe has something to say
concerning his relations to the Quakers. Yet all are so vague
that the reader interested in pursuing the question as to just
what was Defoe's relationship to this then-despised sect, just
what was his attitude toward them, finds himself quite baffled.
When he analyzes these known contacts, he begins to realize why
the biographers have been so vague concerning them; in fact, he
wonders instead why they have been mentioned at all. It is
only when a further study reveals that Defoe must have known
the Quakers much more intimately than is betrayed by the
obvious facts that the reader sees that the biographers have
been right in including this sect among the influences which
shaped Defoe's life and philosophy, even though the exact
nature of such influence has not been understood.
Table of Contents
The problem -- Direct evidence in Defoe's writings of acquaintance with the Quakers -- Circumstantial evidence in Defoe's life and writings pointing to an even wider acquaintance with Quakers and their writings than is proved by direct evidence -- A study of certain characters in Defoe's narratives which show evidence of having their source in Quaker books and pamphlets of the time -- Conclusion -- Bibliography
Description
Thesis (M.A.)-- University of Wichita, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Dept. of English