How did Tom Help Black George’s Family in Distress?
Tom Jones is a notable literary work by Henry Fielding. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Tom Jones.
Answer
How did Tom help Black George’s family in distress?
In Henry Fielding’s (1707-1754) novel “Tom Jones” (1749), Tom Jones is known for his kind-hearted and generous nature. Throughout the novel, he helps Black George’s family in several meaningful ways.
Selling Horse and Bible: Black George is a gamekeeper (someone who takes care of the animals) for Mr. Squire Allworthy. Black George’s family was struggling because he lost his job. They did not have enough food to eat or clothes to wear. Tom Jones comes to help. He sells a horse that Mr. Allworthy gave him and uses the money to support Black George’s family. When questioned by Mr. Allworthy, Tom bravely admits his actions. Again, Tom sells a Bible to Blifil to give money to Black George. This shows Tom’s deep compassion for the family.
A Visit to Black George’s Habitation: On one occasion, Tom Jones slyly takes Mr. Allworthy and Master Bilfil to the house of Black George. He does this to show them the poverty-stricken condition of Black George’s family. They find the family in
“Misery with which cold, hunger, and nakedness…”
This scene deeply affects Mr. Allworthy’s kind heart. So, he helps them. He immediately gives Black George’s wife a couple of guineas to clothe her children. The poor woman burst into tears at this goodness. The woman also thanks Tom Jones. The following line is a direct reference from the novel –
“[She] could not refrain from expressing her gratitude to Tom;”
In conclusion, Tom’s actions throughout the novel show his good nature. Despite his flaws and youthful mischief, his support for Black George and his family shows he is a kind hero.