# The Man of the Island explained — Treasure Island

> Chapter companion for Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson.

## What happens

Jim Hawkins encounters Ben Gunn, a marooned sailor who has lived alone on the island for three years. Ben Gunn reveals he was part of Flint's crew and knows about the buried treasure. He strikes a deal with Jim for passage home and a share of the treasure in exchange for his help. Their conversation is interrupted by the sound of cannon fire, signaling the start of a battle between the loyal crew and the mutineers.

## Themes in this chapter

### The Lure of the Unknown

Jim's initial fear of the mysterious figure on the island gives way to curiosity and alliance, highlighting the allure of the unknown.

### Superstition and Fear

Jim's terror at the 'wild man' and his thoughts of cannibals reflect superstitious fears of the unknown.

### Greed and Morality

Ben Gunn's desire for treasure and his negotiation for a share underscore the theme of greed, while his turn to piety suggests a moral struggle.

## Character check-ins

### Jim Hawkins

Jim meets Ben Gunn, learns his story, and negotiates an alliance. He also hears cannon fire and runs toward the anchorage.

### Ben Gunn

Marooned for three years, Ben Gunn reveals his knowledge of Flint's treasure and his desire for Christian diet and a passage home. He agrees to help Jim's party.

### Long John Silver

Mentioned by Ben Gunn as the former quartermaster on Flint's ship and now the ringleader of the mutineers.

### Billy Bones

Mentioned as the mate on Flint's ship when the treasure was buried.

### Squire Trelawney

Jim assures Ben Gunn that the squire is liberal and would reward him for help.

## Key lines

> I were in Flint's ship when he buried the treasure; he and six along—six strong seamen. They was ashore nigh on a week, and us standing off and on in the old Walrus.

Ben Gunn was part of Flint's crew when the treasure was buried. Flint went ashore with six men for nearly a week while the ship waited nearby.

_Ben Gunn reveals his firsthand knowledge of the treasure's burial._

> If ever you get aboard again, says you? Why, now, who's to hinder you?

Ben Gunn questions Jim's doubt about returning to the ship, implying he can help.

_Ben Gunn shows his willingness to assist Jim in exchange for passage and reward._

> I'm poor Ben Gunn, I am; and I haven't spoke with a Christian these three years.

Ben Gunn introduces himself as a lonely castaway who has had no human contact for three years.

_Ben Gunn's isolation and longing for companionship are evident._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/treasure_island_se/chapters/xv-the-man-of-the-island
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/treasure_island_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/treasure_island_se/chapters