Tom Jones Reflects the Social Picture of a Mid-Eighteenth Century of England.
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
“Tom Jones reflects the social picture of a mid-eighteenth century of England.” Elucidate.
Or, what contemporary social traits do you find in Henry Fielding’s novel “Tom Jones?”
“Tom Jones,” written by Henry Fielding (1707-1754) and published in 1749, provides a rich and detailed portrayal of mid-eighteenth-century English society. This novel offers insights into various social classes and the moral values of the time.
In the dedication of the novel, Henry Fielding declares his purpose:
It is much easier to make good men wise, than to make bad men good.
It suggests the story depicts both good men and bad men existing in the society of Fielding’s time. Through its characters and their interactions, “Tom Jones” captures the complexity and diversity of the society it depicts.
Social Classes and Mobility: Fielding presents a vivid picture of the different social classes in England. The protagonist, Tom Jones, is found as a baby and raised by Squire Allworthy, a kind and wealthy landowner. Despite his unknown parentage, Tom grows up in a privileged environment. However, his status remains uncertain due to his unknown parentage. It illustrates the rigid class distinctions of the time.
The novel highlights the contrasts between the upper class, represented by Squire Allworthy and his circle, and the lower classes, depicted through characters like Black George, the gamekeeper. Fielding also explores the middle class, particularly through the character of Mr. Western, a wealthy but ill-mannered/boorish squire, and his daughter, Sophia.
Morality and Hypocrisy: “Tom Jones” delves into the theme of morality, often highlighting the hypocrisy prevalent in society. Characters like Blifil, who outwardly appear virtuous, are exposed as deceitful and self-serving. He desires to inherit Mr. Allworthy’s wealth. In contrast, Tom, despite his flaws and impulsive behavior, is fundamentally good-hearted and generous. Fielding uses these contrasts to critique the moral pretensions of the time. Fielding critiques the hypocrites in the following manner:
Both religion and virtue have received more real discredit from hypocrites than the wittiest profligates or infidels could
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