Tom Jones Reflects the Social Picture of a Mid-Eighteenth Century of England.

Answer

Present a pen-picture of the contemporary social traits as depicted in the novel “Tom Jones.”

Or, “Tom Jones’ is a faithful representation of mid-eighteenth-century England.” Elucidate.

Or, “Tom Jones” reflects the social picture of mid-eighteenth century England. Elucidate. 

Henry Fielding’s (1707-1754) “Tom Jones” (1749) is a famous 18th-century comic novel. 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 Jones’s adventures, we get a clear and lively picture of mid-18th-century English society. We find different classes, professions, lifestyles, moral values, and social problems of that time.

Social Class and Society: The society in “Tom Jones” is divided into classes. Mr. Squire Allworthy and Lady Bellaston are examples of the upper class. They have money and power. Mr. Allworthy’s servants, like the gamekeeper Black George, are examples of the lower class. Squire Western is an example of the wealthy middle class, who hunt, drink, and seek pleasure. Fielding also depicts class prejudice. Tom was found as an infant in Mr. Allworthy’s bedroom, with no clue of his parents. So, the society treats him as a “bastard,” although he is good-hearted. This gives us a picture of a harsh social system. 

Hypocrisy in Religion and Society: Fielding shows that hypocrisy is a big problem 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.”

Love and Sexuality: Fielding also shows the condition of love and sexuality in contemporary society. Tom follows his sexual desire too quickly. His relationships with women like