Scottish Blog

1850-1894

Robert Louis Stevenson is one of the most authors in the world and a renowned Scot.

Robert Louis Stevenson is the author of one of the world’s best known, widely read and adapted books, Treasure Island. Although in the present day, this fame sometimes overwhelms him, leaving many not knowing that he is of Scottish heritage and also the author of many more equally well written novels.

Robert Louis Stevenson was born on the 13th of November, 1850 in Edinburgh, Scotland. He came from a line of Lighthouse engineers and priests, which proved difficult for him as he was set on pursuing a career in literature. After proving that he had not aptitude for engineering, in his first year at the University of Edinburgh, he pursued a degree in law, as a backup for his career in writing.

Robert Louis Stevenson was an avid traveler and is said to have had a strong love for adventure. His experiences in travelling throughout the various Pacific Islands is what is said to have been the inspiration for his best known novel, Treasure Island.

Although by various records Robert Louis Stevenson is one of the most widely translated authors in the world, he was for a long time looked down upon by members of literary circles. He was in some instances condemned by Virginia Woolf and thought by many to be nothing more than an author for children. In recent years though the popularity of Robert Louis Stevenson amongst literary circles has been raised for its apparent critical insights into society.