An Unofficial 'The Rest Is History' Reading List

Robinson Crusoe

Author: Daniel Defoe

Referenced in 5 episodes

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Episodes Referencing This Book

September 14, 2025

Context:

Mentioned as Defoe's best-selling book when comparing it to his Tour Through the Whole Island of Great Britain. Referenced as evidence of Defoe's importance as 'Britain's first novelist.'

April 27, 2025

Context:

Mentioned to emphasize the age of The Tale of Genji, noting it is '700 years older than Robinson Crusoe, which is generally thought to be the first English novel'

November 28, 2024

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Mentioned as the book that inspired Captain Alexander Ball to go to sea. The hosts discuss its historical significance in inspiring naval careers.

September 10, 2023

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Mentioned as one of the top four books read by British children as late as 1940

August 16, 2021

Context:

Referenced when discussing the Enlightenment's fascination with the idea of the savage - 'you see that in Robinson Crusoe'