The Swiss Family Robinson · Chapter
Postscript by the Editor explained
The editor explains how the Swiss pastor's journal came into his possession: an English transport ship, the Adventurer, was driven to the same island years after the shipwreck.
What happens
The editor explains how the Swiss pastor's journal came into his possession: an English transport ship, the Adventurer, was driven to the same island years after the shipwreck. Lieutenant Bell and Captain Johnson met the pastor, who gave them his journal. A storm prevented their return, so Captain Johnson brought the journal to England, where it was deemed an instructive lesson. A sketch by Fritz is also included.
Themes in this chapter
Providence and Faith
The editor highlights that the family's piety and trust in divine order led to serenity and happiness despite their shipwreck, and notes that Heaven's ordination prevented a reunion.
Education and Moral Instruction
The editor emphasizes the value of teaching boys practical knowledge of natural productions, tools, and resourcefulness to prepare them for adversity.
Characters to notice
- Father
The Swiss pastor who meets the English officers and gives them his journal.
- Fritz
Mentioned as the son who executed the rough sketch of the island attached to the journal.
- Captain Johnson
Captain of the Adventurer who brings the journal to England.
- Lieutenant Bell
English officer who speaks German, converses with the pastor, and receives the journal.
Key passages
“it exhibits a lively picture of the happiness which does not fail to result from the practice of moral virtues”
The journal shows that practicing moral virtues leads to happiness.
The editor summarizes the moral lesson of the story.
“we see the advantage of including in the education of boys, such a knowledge of the natural productions of the earth, of the various combinations by which they may be rendered serviceable, and of the use of tools of every kind”
Boys benefit from learning about natural resources, how to use them, and how to handle tools.
The editor advocates for practical education.