And What if the Pretender should Come?

Name: And What if the Pretender should Come?
Author: Daniel Defoe

The work examines the potential implications of the pretender's return to power in Britain, addressing the legitimacy of his claim and the divided public opinion surrounding it. The author argues that if the pretender is indeed the rightful heir, his ascension could bring significant benefits to the nation, including the dissolution of the union with England, which many Scots oppose. The text critiques the fears associated with the pretender's rule, particularly regarding French influence and Catholicism, suggesting that these concerns are exaggerated and unfounded. The author posits that a closer alliance with France under the pretender could enhance Britain's security and prosperity, transforming a perceived threat into an ally. The work also discusses the financial burdens of the current government, proposing that the pretender could alleviate national debt and eliminate the need for parliaments, which are seen as sources of division and expense. Ultimately, the text advocates for the acceptance of the pretender, framing his rule as a path to national unity, economic relief, and a more stable government, free from the turmoil of party politics and external threats. The author emphasizes the need for a rational assessment of the pretender's potential benefits, urging the public to reconsider their apprehensions.

By Daniel Defoe · First published 1720 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Political Fiction, Drama · 11,742 words

First lines

If the danger of the pretender is really so great as the noise which some make about it seems to suppose, if the hopes of his coming are so well grounded, as some of his friends seem to boast, it behoves us who are to be the subjects of the approaching revolution, which his success must necessarily bring with it, to apply ourselves seriously to examine what our part will be in the play, that so we may prepare ourselves to act as becomes us, both with respect to the government we are now under, and with respect to the government we may be under, when the success he promises himself shall (if ever it shall) answer his expectation.

What this Textopian page supports

And What if the Pretender should Come? is listed on Textopian as a short story by Daniel Defoe, dated 1720 CE.

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Work type: Short story
Author: Daniel Defoe
Date: 1720 CE
Language: English
Genres: Historical Fiction, Political Fiction, Drama
Length: 11,742 words
Structure: 1 section, 24 paragraphs
Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Historical Fiction — The book is set in a historical context and depicts events and characters of a particular historical period.
Political Fiction — The book deals with political power struggles and machinations, a common theme in political fiction.
Drama — The narrative includes intense conflict and emotional tension that aligns with the dramatic genre.