# Postscript by the Editor explained — The Swiss Family Robinson

> Chapter companion for The Swiss Family Robinson by Johann David Wyss.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_swiss_family_robinson_se/chapters/postscript-by-the-editor
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_swiss_family_robinson_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_swiss_family_robinson_se/chapters