Tom Jones | Henry Fielding | Study Guide

Author: Henry Fielding

Year: 1749

Type: Novel

Genre: Bildungsroman, picaresque novel

About Title:

"The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling" is a novel written by Henry Fielding and first published in 1749. It is considered one of the earliest English novels and is celebrated for its rich character development and social commentary. The story follows the life and adventures of Tom Jones, a charming and impulsive young man who is discovered as an infant and raised by a kind-hearted landowner.

Characters:

Tom Jones: The protagonist of the novel, a foundling raised by Squire Allworthy who embarks on a journey of self-discovery.

Squire Allworthy: Tom's adoptive father, a benevolent landowner who raises him with love and care.

Sophia Western: The beautiful and virtuous daughter of Squire Western, with whom Tom falls deeply in love.

Mr. Blifil: Tom's jealous and conniving cousin who schemes to inherit Squire Allworthy's estate.

Various other colorful characters from different social classes who influence Tom's life and adventures.

Summary:

"The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling" is a lively novel written by Henry Fielding that tells the story of a young man named Tom Jones, who is discovered as a baby in the bed of a wealthy gentleman. Raised by a kind-hearted country squire, Tom grows up to be a spirited and adventurous young man with a good heart but a tendency to find trouble.

The novel follows Tom's journey as he navigates the complexities of love, friendship, and society in 18th-century England. Along the way, he falls in love with the beautiful and virtuous Sophia Western, but their path to happiness is hindered by misunderstandings, devious schemers, and social conventions.

Tom's adventures take him through various escapades and encounters with colorful characters, including rogues, rakes, and eccentric aristocrats. Despite his flaws, Tom's innate goodness shines through as he faces moral dilemmas and learns important life lessons.

Fielding's novel is not just a rollicking adventure but also a social commentary on the inequalities and hypocrisies of Georgian society. Through Tom's experiences, Fielding explores themes of class, morality, and the nature of virtue, offering a rich and entertaining portrait of 18th-century England.

Symbols:

Foundling: Symbolizes the theme of identity and belonging, as Tom grapples with his origins and search for his place in the world.

Virtue and vice: Represented through the contrasting characters of Tom Jones and Mr. Blifil, highlighting the moral complexities of human nature.

Social class and status: Fielding explores the dynamics of class and privilege in 18th-century England, exposing the hypocrisy and corruption within society's elite.

Themes:

Morality and redemption: The novel explores themes of morality, virtue, and the possibility of redemption, as Tom navigates the consequences of his actions and seeks to atone for his mistakes.

Love and friendship: Tom's relationships with Sophia, Squire Allworthy, and other characters highlight the transformative power of love and the importance of genuine human connections.

Satire and social commentary: Fielding uses humor and wit to critique the hypocrisy, vanity, and moral decay of contemporary society, offering a satirical glimpse into the foibles of human nature.

Overall Thoughts:

"The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling" is a sprawling and ambitious novel that offers a panoramic view of 18th-century English society. Through its vivid characters, intricate plot, and biting satire, Fielding crafts a timeless work that continues to resonate with readers today. Tom Jones's journey from innocence to experience serves as a mirror to our own struggles and aspirations, reminding us of the enduring power of love, friendship, and the pursuit of moral integrity.