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Definition of Motif
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the central themes of a book... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of... read full definition
Chapter 1
Explanation and Analysis—Life's Middle Station:
The idea of life's "middle station" is a motif throughout the novel. In his entreaties in Chapter 1, Robinson's father asserts that the middle station is the best station to have in life. He expresses a profound wish for his son to be content with becoming and remaining the middle man. However, the young and unfilial Robinson yearns more for adventure than stability.
He told me, I might judge of the happiness of this state, by this one thing, viz. That this was the state of life which all other people envied, that kings have frequently lamented the miserable consequences of being born to great things, and wish’d they had been placed in the middle of the two extremes, between the mean and the great; that the wise man gave his testimony to this as the just standard of true felicity, when he prayed to have neither poverty or riches.
Related Themes:
Chapter 4
Explanation and Analysis—Life's Middle Station:
The idea of life's "middle station" is a motif throughout the novel. In his entreaties in Chapter 1, Robinson's father asserts that the middle station is the best station to have in life. He expresses a profound wish for his son to be content with becoming and remaining the middle man. However, the young and unfilial Robinson yearns more for adventure than stability.
Unlock with LitCharts A+He told me, I might judge of the happiness of this state, by this one thing, viz. That this was the state of life which all other people envied, that kings have frequently lamented the miserable consequences of being born to great things, and wish’d they had been placed in the middle of the two extremes, between the mean and the great; that the wise man gave his testimony to this as the just standard of true felicity, when he prayed to have neither poverty or riches.
Related Themes:
