Comment On The Themes of the Novel “Tom Jones.”

Answer

Comment on the themes of the novel “Tom Jones”.

Henry Fielding’s (1707-1754) “Tom Jones” (1749) is a famous 18th-century comic novel. It is also one of the earliest English novels. The story follows Tom Jones’s adventures, from a foundling raised by Mr. Allworthy to his involvement with many romantic affairs and social classes. Through Tom’s journey, Fielding shows the themes of human nature, social class, morality, sexuality, and hypocrisy. Let us take a closer look at the themes below. 

Theme of Morality: For Fielding, true morality is someone’s kindness, generosity, and honesty, even if they occasionally make mistakes. Tom Jones is an example of a moral character. Tom is a kind-hearted young man. He helps others, like when he gives money to poor Black George’s family. He also makes mistakes, like having affairs with many women. But he learns from his mistakes and grows. Mr. Allworthy sees Tom’s good nature and says:

“I am convinced, my child, that you have much goodness, generosity, and honour, in your temper.”

Fielding shows that goodness is about having a kind heart and learning from mistakes.

Theme of Hypocrisy: Fielding strongly criticises hypocrisy in society. Blifil pretends to be obedient and religious. But he is actually greedy, jealous, and deceitful. He lies to Squire Allworthy to make Tom appear bad. Thwackum, Tom’s tutor, pretends to teach religion but uses religion to punish Tom and support Blifil. Through these characters, Fielding shows that hypocrisy is more dangerous to religion and goodness than openly bad people. As the narrator says:

“Both religion and virtue have received more real discredit from hypocrites than… infidels could ever cast upon them.”

Theme of Love and Sexuality: Fielding treats love and sexuality as natural parts of human life. He does not blame sexual desires outright. However, Fielding also warns about the dangers of uncontrolled passion and the chaos it can cause. Tom’s relationships with women, like Molly, Mrs. Waters, and Lady Bellaston, often lead him into trouble. These