Move over, Jane Austen. Long before multiple film and television adaptations of Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, and Mansfield Park, three overlooked English literary classics have shaped Hollywood, inspiring iconic masterpieces that we love.
King Solomon’s Mines: The Adventure Genre’s Spark
Written by H. Rider Haggard and published in 1885, King Solomon’s Mines is often heralded as one of the earliest examples of the "lost world" adventure genre. The novel follows Allan Quatermain, a seasoned hunter and explorer, as he embarks on a perilous journey to find a fabled treasure hidden in the depths of Africa. The story is packed with danger, intrigue, and exploration, all delivered through a straightforward and gripping narrative style.
The plot is as riveting as it is groundbreaking. Quatermain is approached by Sir Henry Curtis and Captain Good, who seek his help in locating Curtis’s missing brother. Armed with a mysterious map leading to King Solomon’s diamond mines, the trio embarks on a dangerous trek through harsh deserts, dense jungles, and treacherous mountain ranges. Along the way, they encounter fierce tribes, legendary curses, and the unforgiving elements, which test their courage and resolve. Haggard’s vivid descriptions of the African landscape and its diverse cultures were both imaginative and influential, transporting readers to a world of peril and possibility.
Themes of colonialism, friendship, and the allure of the unknown are central to the novel, which captured the Victorian imagination upon its release. Allan Quatermain’s character—gruff, practical, and deeply human—set a template for the rugged adventurers who would populate future stories. The book’s initial reception was overwhelmingly positive, sparking a wave of adventure novels and laying the groundwork for countless cinematic adaptations.
Hollywood embraced the spirit of King Solomon’s Mines, giving rise to epic adventure films. The Indiana Jones franchise brought the treasure-hunting archetype to life, with Harrison Ford portraying the daring archaeologist venturing into Egypt, the Himalayas, Peru and other exotic destinations. Each film combined ancient mysteries, high-stakes action, and an enduring charm, beginning with Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981), which remains a cultural touchstone.
Similarly, The Mummy series focused on the quest for hidden treasures from ancient Egypt, starring Brendan Fraser, leaned into the blend of danger and humor, grossing over $1.4 billion across its franchise. Angelina Jolie’s portrayal of Lara Croft in Tomb Raider added a modern twist to the archetype, with the film adaptation of the video game generating over $274 million globally.
Robinson Crusoe: The Birth of the Castaway
Daniel Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe, published in 1719, is often considered the first English novel. It chronicles the story of Robinson Crusoe, a shipwreck survivor stranded on a deserted island. Crusoe’s ingenuity and determination to survive in isolation form the core of the narrative, which is presented through a first-person perspective that blends journalistic detail with introspection. The novel explores themes of human resilience, colonialism, and man’s relationship with nature, establishing the framework for what would later be called the "Robinsonade" genre.
The plot is a masterclass in survival and human perseverance. Crusoe, shipwrecked on a remote island, uses his resourcefulness to build shelter, grow crops, and domesticate animals. His efforts to create a semblance of civilization in utter isolation showcase the triumph of human ingenuity over adversity. A pivotal moment in the story occurs when Crusoe encounters Friday, a native man whom he saves from cannibals. Their evolving relationship—marked by cultural misunderstandings but also mutual respect—adds depth to the narrative, exploring themes of companionship and the complexities of colonial power dynamics.
Defoe’s narrative style, characterized by its meticulous detail and journal-like realism, was revolutionary for its time. It offered readers a sense of immediacy and immersion, making them feel as though they were living Crusoe’s trials alongside him. Upon its release, Robinson Crusoe was a sensation. The novel’s realistic depiction of survival captivated readers, and its popularity spurred numerous adaptations and imitations.
Over time, its influence extended to Hollywood. In Castaway (2000), Tom Hanks delivers a poignant performance as Chuck Noland, a modern-day Crusoe stranded on a deserted island after a plane crash. The film explores his psychological and physical struggles, resonating deeply with audiences and grossing over $429 million worldwide. Similarly, Lost (2004–2010), a television phenomenon averaging 15 million viewers during its peak, drew on the Robinsonade’s central themes of survival and human connection in the face of adversity. The genre also found comedic expression in Gilligan’s Island (1964–1967), which humorously depicted a group of castaways navigating island life.
Reality TV shows like Survivor owe their existence to Defoe’s groundbreaking work, with the format of contestants surviving in remote locations captivating millions globally. These examples highlight the enduring appeal of Robinson Crusoe, a narrative that has stood the test of time.
Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde: The Dark Side of Duality
Robert Louis Stevenson’s Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, first published in 1886, is a chilling exploration of human duality. The novella tells the story of Dr. Jekyll, a respected scientist who concocts a potion to separate his moral and immoral sides, only to unleash the monstrous Mr. Hyde. Written in a gothic style with a sense of mounting dread, the narrative unravels through a combination of letters, testimonies, and third-person accounts.
The plot’s ingenuity lies in its psychological depth and suspenseful pacing. Dr. Jekyll’s descent into chaos begins as a scientific experiment but spirals into a gripping moral dilemma. The transformation into Hyde allows Jekyll to indulge in forbidden desires without consequence—or so he believes. As Hyde’s actions grow increasingly violent, Jekyll grapples with the realization that he cannot control his darker half, culminating in a harrowing conclusion that leaves readers questioning the boundaries of identity and morality.
Key themes include the struggle between good and evil, the dangers of unchecked scientific ambition, and the complexity of human identity. Stevenson’s gothic style—rich in atmosphere and psychological tension—created a lasting template for horror and thriller genres. Upon its release, the novella was both a critical and commercial success, and its influence only grew over time.
Hollywood has long been fascinated by the duality explored in Stevenson’s work. In Primal Fear (1996), Edward Norton excels in his breakout role opposite Richard Gere as a young man accused of murder whose multiple personalities gradually come to light, leaving audiences questioning the truth. Sybil (1976), starring Sally Field, offers a poignant exploration of dissociative identity disorder, drawing clear inspiration from Stevenson’s themes. Fight Club (1999), a modern classic, takes the concept of dual identities to new psychological depths with Brad Pitt and Edward Norton delivering riveting performances.
The story’s influence extends to television as well. Shows like Dexter explore moral duality through the lens of a forensic expert leading a double life as a serial killer. Even lighter fare, such as The Incredible Hulk franchise which was adapted from Marvel comic books, owes much to Stevenson’s depiction of the monstrous side lurking within the human psyche. The psychological insight of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde ensures its relevance across genres and generations.
Timeless Stories for Modern Times
The enduring impact of these English literary classics on modern arts and entertainment underscores their universal appeal. Themes of adventure, survival, and multiple dimensions of human nature—rooted in the human condition—transcend centuries, finding new life in Hollywood’s blockbusters and television hits. As content consumption evolves, these stories remind us that the heart of great storytelling lies in its ability to connect with our shared humanity. In a way, these classics have a "back to the future" experience, proving that timeless narratives can thrive in any era.
