Literary Influences:
* Sir Walter Scott: Stevenson admired Scott's historical novels and his romantic style, particularly his use of vivid characters and exciting plots. This influence is evident in Stevenson's own historical fiction like "Kidnapped" and "The Black Arrow."
* William Shakespeare: Stevenson was deeply impressed by Shakespeare's language, characters, and dramatic tension. His works, particularly his plays, served as a model for Stevenson's own writing style.
* Charles Dickens: Stevenson found inspiration in Dickens's social commentary, vivid characters, and imaginative storytelling. His own works, such as "Treasure Island," often feature a similar blend of adventure, humor, and social observation.
* Edgar Allan Poe: Stevenson was a fan of Poe's dark and suspenseful style, his mastery of atmosphere, and his exploration of the macabre. This influence is present in Stevenson's gothic and horror works, like "The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde."
* Nathaniel Hawthorne: Hawthorne's exploration of moral ambiguity and psychological complexity resonated with Stevenson. This is reflected in Stevenson's own examination of good and evil, as seen in "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde."
* Robert Burns: The Scottish poet's use of language, his exploration of Scottish folklore, and his strong sense of national identity influenced Stevenson's later works.
Other Influences:
* His Father: Stevenson's father was a prominent lighthouse engineer who instilled in him a fascination with the sea and a love of adventure.
* His Childhood: Stevenson's upbringing in Edinburgh, Scotland, provided him with a rich cultural environment and a strong sense of Scottish identity. His childhood illness and his experiences traveling abroad also shaped his outlook and writing.
* His Travels: Stevenson's extensive travels to places like France, Italy, and the South Pacific exposed him to different cultures and people, influencing his writing and characters.
Overall:
Stevenson's writing was shaped by a diverse array of influences, from literary giants to personal experiences. He blended these influences into his own unique style, creating memorable characters, exciting plots, and thought-provoking stories that continue to resonate with readers today.