Father Damien: An Open Letter to the Reverend Dr. Hyde of Honolulu

Robert Louis Stevenson’s “Father Damien: An Open Letter to the Reverend Dr. Hyde of Honolulu” takes the form of a passionate defense of Father Damien against harsh criticisms attributed to Reverend Dr. Hyde. Written in the late 19th century, the letter responds to disparaging claims about Damien’s character and motives, including accusations that he was driven by personal glory rather than compassion. Stevenson argues that Damien devoted his life to caring for leprosy patients on Molokai, treating suffering with dedication and personal sacrifice despite the difficulties faced by both the man and the mission. Framed as a close examination of Hyde’s assertions, the letter seeks to correct misrepresentation and to reaffirm Damien as a genuine moral and social hero.