61 pages • 2 hours read
Johann David WyssThe Swiss Family Robinson
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1812A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Introduction
Teacher Introduction
Swiss Family Robinson by Johann David Wyss
- Genre: Fiction; adventure, survival
- Originally Published: 1812
- Reading Level/Interest: Lexile 610L; ages 10 and up
- Structure/Length: Divided into chapters; approximately 375 pages; length may vary in different editions
- Protagonist/Central Conflict: Swiss Family Robinson follows the adventures of the Robinson family—Father, Mother, Fritz, Ernest, Francis, and Jack—as they become shipwrecked on a deserted tropical island. The central conflict revolves around their struggle for survival and their resourcefulness in building a new life on the island. The family faces various challenges, from building shelter to taming animals and finding food. The novel explores themes of self-reliance, ingenuity, and the enduring bond of family as they adapt to their new environment.
- Potential Sensitivity Issues: Pro-colonial themes; cultural and gender stereotypes; hunting, animal cruelty and animal exploitation; children in physical danger
Johann David Wyss, Author
- Bio: Born 1743, deceased 1818; Swiss author known for his contributions to adventure literature; “Swiss Family Robinson” is his most famous work, inspired by Robinson Crusoe and written as a moral adventure story for children; Wyss was also a military chaplain and philosopher.
- Other Works: While Swiss Family Robinson remains his most enduring work, Wyss authored several other books and essays during his lifetime.
CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Guide:
