202. Long John Silver: The Truth Behind Treasure Island

In this episode of "Empire," Anita and William delve into the world of fictional pirates, contrasting them with the real-life figures they've discussed in previous episodes. They begin by exploring the origins of Long John Silver from "Treasure Island," tracing Robert Louis Stevenson's inspiration back to his childhood in Scotland and Daniel Defoe's influence. They discuss Alexander Selkirk, the real-life castaway who inspired Robinson Crusoe, and Defoe's role in establishing the "pirate code" myth. The hosts then discuss Stevenson's life, his family history of lighthouse construction, and the personal experiences that shaped "Treasure Island," including the influence of a map drawn by his stepson. They explore the historical basis for elements within the novel, such as pieces of eight and buried treasure, and the real-life figures who may have inspired Stevenson's characters, such as Captain Edward England. They also touch on the origin of the stereotypical pirate accent and the cultural impact of "Treasure Island" on the romanticized view of pirates.