How was Tom Jones imprisoned?

Answer

How was Tom Jones imprisoned?

In Henry Fielding’s famous novel (1707-1754) “Tom Jones” (1749), Tom Jones is a kind and brave young man. Troubles and misunderstandings seem to follow Tom everywhere. One of the biggest troubles in his life is when he is imprisoned for stabbing Mr. Fitzpatrick.

Tom Visits Mrs. Fitzpatrick: Tom leaves Mr. Allworthy’s house because of false accusations. He goes on a journey, faces many adventures, and loves Sophia Western deeply. While searching for Sophia in London, he visits Mrs. Fitzpatrick. Mrs. Fitzpatrick is Sophia’s cousin.

Fight with Mr. Fitzpatrick: Mr. Fitzpatrick is a very jealous and angry husband. When Tom is coming out of the house after visiting Mrs. Fitzpatrick, her husband also comes looking for her. He sees Tom leaving the house and thinks Tom is having an affair with his wife. He tells Tom:

“You must have been in it [the house], as I saw you come out of it.”

Fitzpatrick stops Tom and starts a fight in the street. Tom tries to calm him, but Fitzpatrick hits Tom and draws his sword. Tom defends himself and accidentally wounds Fitzpatrick seriously with his sword.

Imprisonment: Immediately, some men capture Tom. They belong to Lord Fellamar’s gang, who wanted to capture Tom for their own plans. They hand Tom over to the constable. Tom is taken to Gatehouse prison. Later, he learns that Fitzpatrick has died. Tom feels deep sorrow and guilt. He thinks he has killed a man, even though it was not his fault.

In short, Tom Jones is imprisoned because he accidentally wounds Fitzpatrick while defending himself in a fight. This sad event brings more troubles for Tom, but it also prepares the way for the truth to come out later in the story.