Silver versus His Own Crew

Long John Silver's authority is constantly tested by the men he claims to command.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Building a Pirate Party

Building a Pirate Party Context Silver helps Squire Trelawney hire the crew, inserting his own old shipmates among the hands. Development He calls himself an easy man, but he carefully controls the flow of information. The crew looks to him as their real leader. Significance Silver's power over the crew is the engine of the mutiny. Yet it is built on promises, not loyalty.

Holding the Crew Together

Holding the Crew Together Context The mutineers are shaken by their losses and take refuge in the swamp. Silver has to keep them from running away. Development He uses a mixture of threats, rumors of a consort, and promises of treasure. His men are restless but follow him. Significance The crew's collapse is delayed only by Silver's will. The internal strain prepares for his later deposition.

Protecting the Hostage

Protecting the Hostage Context The mutineers want to kill Jim Hawkins, but Silver shields him with his own authority, calling Jim his last card. Development He argues that Jim is worth more alive as a hostage and a witness. His protection is entirely selfish but saves Jim's life. Significance The conflict between Silver and his crew sharpens around Jim. Silver's double game becomes visible to the reader.

Black Spot Deposition

Black Spot Deposition Context The crew gives Silver a Black Spot cut from a Bible, deposing him from the captaincy. Development Silver answers each accusation and produces the chart, which reignites their greed. They restore him with shouts of 'Barbecue forever!' Significance The deposition is a crisis within the mutiny. Silver survives by manipulating the exact greed that made him captain.

Leashing the Mutineers

Leashing the Mutineers Context Silver marches with Jim on a rope, while the mutineers run ahead, frantic for the gold. His control is slipping. Development He knows they will turn on him the moment the treasure is found. His eyes watch Jim and the men with equal calculation. Significance The internal conflict reaches its peak. Silver has become a prisoner of his own crew, forced to chase a treasure he may not survive to enjoy.

during the recruitment in Bristol

after the failed attack on the stockade

after Jim Hawkins is captured

the night in the block house

during the treasure hunt