Exploring Robert Louis Stevenson: IELTS Reading Passage with Questions & Answers

Robert Louis Stevenson Reading Passage

Robert Louis Stevenson, a name synonymous with adventure and imagination, has been an enduring figure in the literary world. Born on November 13, 1850, in Edinburgh, Scotland, Stevenson's contributions to literature span a range of genres, including travel writing, poetry, and children's literature, though he is best known for his classic adventure tales.

Stevenson's life was as colorful and adventurous as his stories. Plagued by ill health from an early age, he often found solace and escape in the world of stories, both reading and writing them. Despite his frail condition, he traveled widely, drawing inspiration from his voyages to pen some of his most famous works. His most significant travels included journeys to France, where he fell in love with Fanny Osbourne, an American woman who would become his wife, and to the Pacific Islands, which influenced his later works profoundly.

His seminal novel, "Treasure Island," published in 1883, was originally serialized in a children's magazine and captured the imagination of readers with its vivid descriptions and gripping narrative. This tale of buccaneers and buried gold established Stevenson as a master storyteller and was significant in shaping the adventure genre.

"Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde," another of Stevenson's classics, explores the duality of human nature and the battle between good and evil. Published in 1886, this gothic novella was a departure from his adventure novels and was immensely successful, demonstrating Stevenson's versatility as a writer.

Stevenson's style was characterized by his ability to weave narratives with intricate plots and memorable characters. His stories often contained underlying moral lessons and social commentaries, reflecting his keen observation and philosophical musings on life.

The author's life was tragically cut short when he died on December 3, 1894, in Samoa, where he had settled, hoping that the tropical climate would improve his health. Robert Louis Stevenson left behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire and captivate readers and writers alike.

Questions:

Q1. In which year was Robert Louis Stevenson born?

A. 1840

B. 1850

C. 1860

D. 1870

Q2. Which genre is Robert Louis Stevenson best known for?

A. Romance

B. Adventure

C. Horror

D. Science Fiction

Q3. Fill in the blank: Robert Louis Stevenson's novel "Treasure Island" was originally serialized in a ___________.

Q4. True or False: "Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" was published after "Treasure Island."

Q5. What theme does "Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" primarily explore?

A. The supernatural

B. The duality of human nature

C. Pirate adventures

D. Colonialism

Q6. Fill in the blank: Robert Louis Stevenson passed away in the year ___________.

Q7. True or False: Stevenson's health improved significantly after moving to Samoa.

Q8. Where did Stevenson meet his future wife, Fanny Osbourne?

A. Scotland

B. France

C. Samoa

D. The United States

Q9. Fill in the blank: Stevenson's travel writings were heavily influenced by his voyages to ___________.

Q10. True or False: Robert Louis Stevenson's works are no longer popular and are rarely read today.

Answers:

A1. B. 1850

A2. B. Adventure

A3. Children's magazine

A4. True

A5. B. The duality of human nature

A6. 1894

A7. False

A8. B. France

A9. The Pacific Islands

A10. False