Daniel Defoe

Daniel Defoe (c. 1660 – 24 April 1731) was an English writer, journalist, merchant, and spy, best known as a pioneer of the novel form. He is most famous for *Robinson Crusoe* (1719), which became an instant success—running through four editions before the year was out—and has since been adapted countless times, even lending its name to the "Robinsonade" genre. His other enduring works include *Moll Flanders* (1722) and *Roxana: The Fortunate Mistress* (1724).

Born in London around 1660, Defoe entered the literary world through political pamphleteering, often courting controversy and landing in prison for his views. He helped popularize the English novel alongside contemporaries like Aphra Behn and Samuel Richardson, blending vivid realism with social commentary. His fresh ideas attracted the attention of intellectuals and politicians, who sometimes sought his counsel.

Defoe's writing has been adapted for comics, notably in *Classics Illustrated* and its international editions, where his stories reached new audiences. He died in London in 1731, leaving a legacy as a foundational figure in English literature whose work continues to be read, studied, and adapted worldwide.