How does Robinson Crusoe act as Defoe's contribution to English literature?

Whether
literally first or not, is often considered the first English novel. As
such, it models what would become mainstays of the modern novel: , character development, and
plot development.

Unlike romances or fabulistor drama,
Robinson Crusoe occurs very much within the parameters
of the real world. No fairies or supernatural sprites appear to help Crusoe, and no supernatural
events help him along. He has to rely solely on his wits and ingenuity. The novel goes to great
lengths to realistically depict how and what Crusoe salvages from the marooned ship, and to
outline what he finds, builds, and cultivates that helps him to survive. Given the level of
realism and detail, a reader can easily...