Squire Trelawney
Character overview
Robert Louis Stevenson depicts Squire John Trelawney as a towering figure, standing above six feet tall, with a sturdy build and a weather-beaten, ruddy complexion shaped by extensive journeys. His prominent black eyebrows contribute to an impression of quick temper tempered by kindness.
An enthusiastic and somewhat pompous English landowner, Trelawney plays a crucial role as a financier and supporter of Dr. Livesey and the main character Jim Hawkins in their treasure-seeking adventure. He tends to be somewhat naive, easily convinced by Long John Silver to recruit a crew that includes mutinous pirates. Although he initially clashes with Captain Alexander Smollett over concerns about the voyage’s security, Trelawney concedes his mistake once Jim exposes the planned mutiny. Throughout the story, he remains steadfast and competent, deeply affected by the loss of his gamekeeper, Tom Redruth.
Role in plot
Together with Dr. Livesey and Jim Hawkins, Trelawney funds and arranges the expedition to Treasure Island. Upon arriving at Bristol docks, he buys the schooner Hispaniola, appoints Captain Smollett as its leader, and hires Long John Silver as the cook. Trusting Silver’s judgment during crew selection leads him to unwittingly include Flint’s former pirate associates who intend to revolt.
Despite cautions to maintain secrecy about their mission, Trelawney’s indiscreet remarks reveal their plans, weakening his standing among the sailors. When the mutiny comes to light, he openly admits his error to Captain Smollett: "Now, Captain, you were right, and I was wrong. I own myself an ass, and I await your orders."
During the uprising, Trelawney allies with Livesey and loyal crew members to subdue the remaining pirates aboard. They take control of an abandoned fort onshore, overcome the mutineers, secure the treasure, and return safely to England—leaving the surviving rebels stranded.
A seasoned traveler and proficient marksman, Trelawney exhibits strong leadership qualities and calmness under pressure throughout the journey. His persona may draw inspiration from Edward Trelawny, who governed Jamaica between 1738 and 1752.
Film portrayals
Squire Trelawney has been brought to life on screen by numerous actors including Sydney Deane (1920), Nigel Bruce (1934), Walter Fitzgerald (1950), Walter Slezak (1972), Thorley Walters (1977), Richard Johnson (1990), Christopher Benjamin (1999), and Rupert Penry-Jones (2012). The character’s voice was also provided by Borys Voznyuk in 1988 and was humorously represented by Fozzie Bear in Muppet Treasure Island (1996).
References
Stevenson, Robert Louis. Treasure Island. Complete and Unabridged. New York: Airmont Publishing Co., Inc., 1962.