Tom Jones : Key info
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.
Key info
Full Title: The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling
Author: Henry Fielding (1707–1754).
Titles of the Author: Novelist, Playwright, Magistrate, Pioneer of the English Novel
Source: Original work, based on Fielding’s knowledge of English society and classical literature
Written Time: 1746–1748
First Published: February 1749
Published Dates: 1749 (first edition)
Total Parts: 18 Books (the novel is divided into 18 books)
Type of Work: Novel
Genre: Comic Novel / Picaresque / Social Satire / Realism
Point of View: Third Person (omniscient narrator who often addresses the reader)
Climax: Tom Jones is revealed to be the true son of his guardian’s sister, removing doubts about his birth and allowing him to marry Sophia
Setting:
Time Setting: Early to mid-18th century
Place Setting: Country estates in Somerset and Wiltshire, and the city of London, England
Background: “Tom Jones” was written in the middle of the eighteenth century. At that time, England was changing quickly. There were social, political, and economic changes in the country. The gap between rich and poor was growing. People were moving from villages to big cities like London. Family life and social rules were often strict, and there was a lot of talk about what was right or wrong. Books and newspapers were becoming popular among common people. Henry Fielding knew a lot about English society because he worked as a magistrate and lawyer. He saw the problems and funny sides of people’s lives. “Tom Jones” shows country life, city life, and the journey between them. The story explores love, family, honesty, and class differences. The novel uses humor and real-life situations to teach lessons about living in society. Fielding wanted readers to think about kindness, truth, and fairness.
Key Notes
Novel: “Tom Jones” is one of the greatest English novels. The story is long and full of humor and action. Fielding writes in clear and easy language, so many people enjoy it.
Realism: The novel shows real life in England. It describes country houses, city life, family problems, and society’s rules. The characters are lifelike and have both good and bad sides.
Morality: The novel discusses what is right and wrong. Tom sometimes makes mistakes but tries to be a good person. The story teaches lessons about honesty, forgiveness, and kindness.
Love and Family: Love is central to the story. Tom loves Sophia, and their relationship faces many challenges. Family secrets and misunderstandings create problems, but love and truth win in the end.
Satire: Fielding uses humor to make fun of the problems in society. He shows the foolishness of pride, greed, and false manners. The novel laughs at people in power and silly social rules.
Narration: The story is told by an all-knowing narrator. Sometimes, the narrator directly speaks to the reader, giving opinions and advice.
Moral Lessons: “Tom Jones” tells readers to be kind, truthful, and hopeful. It reminds us that mistakes can be forgiven and good people can find happiness.