Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 288

From which novel the term 'Man Friday' originated

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the novel where a castaway rescues a native.

Correct Answer: B) Robinson Crusoe.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, CLAT

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The term 'Man Friday' originates from Daniel Defoe's novel "Robinson Crusoe," which was first published in 1719. The novel is a classic of English literature and is often considered one of the first novels in the English language. It tells the story of Robinson Crusoe, a man who is shipwrecked on a deserted island and must survive alone for many years.

During his time on the island, Crusoe encounters a native whom he rescues from cannibals. He names this native 'Friday' after the day he was rescued. Crusoe teaches Friday English and converts him to Christianity, and Friday becomes his loyal companion and servant. The term 'Man Friday' has since been used to refer to a male servant or assistant, often in a context where the servant is particularly loyal or devoted to their master.

The novel "Robinson Crusoe" is a significant work in the history of literature, and it has had a profound influence on the development of the novel as a literary form. The story of Crusoe's survival and his relationship with Friday have become iconic in popular culture, and the term 'Man Friday' is one of the many phrases that have entered the English language as a result of the novel.

It is important to note that the term 'Man Friday' is not associated with any other literary works or characters. For example, "Adventures of Sherlock Holmes" by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, "Gulliver's Travels" by Jonathan Swift, and "Paradise Lost" by John Milton do not contain the term 'Man Friday' or any similar concept. These works are significant in their own right but are not the source of the term in question.

Understanding the origin of the term 'Man Friday' is important for students of literature and those interested in the history of the English language. It provides insight into the cultural and literary influences that have shaped our language and our understanding of certain concepts and relationships.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is incorrect. "Adventures of Sherlock Holmes" is a series of detective stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and does not contain the term 'Man Friday.' The term is not associated with any character or plot in this novel.
  • Option B: This option is correct. The term 'Man Friday' originates from Daniel Defoe's novel "Robinson Crusoe." In the story, Robinson Crusoe rescues a native named Friday, who becomes his loyal companion and servant. The term has since been used to refer to a male servant or assistant.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. "Gulliver's Travels" by Jonathan Swift is a satirical novel that does not contain the term 'Man Friday.' The term is not associated with any character or plot in this novel.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. "Paradise Lost" by John Milton is an epic poem that does not contain the term 'Man Friday.' The term is not associated with any character or plot in this poem.

Mnemonic: R.C. Friday: Robinson Crusoe's Friday

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