Tom Jones : Themes
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.
Themes
Love and Loyalty: Love grows slowly between Tom and Sophia. They meet as children and form a bond. Tom saves her from a fall and gets hurt. Sophia admires Tom’s warm and honest heart. She stays loyal even when angry. Tom makes many mistakes in love. But he stays faithful to Sophia in the end. Their love survives trials and misunderstandings. Their reunion shows love built on trust.
Virtue vs. Hypocrisy: Tom makes mistakes but has a kind heart. He helps the poor and forgives enemies. Blifil behaves well but is selfish inside. He lies and hurts others for gain. The novel shows who is truly good. True virtue means caring and honesty. Hypocrisy means showing goodness only for praise. Fielding values action over appearance.
Social Class and Identity: Tom is born a foundling without a name. Society treats him as low-born. Blifil, though wicked, is seen as noble. Tom’s kind acts are often ignored. But his true worth is later discovered. Mr Allworthy learns Tom’s real identity. Tom is from a noble family by birth. The story shows birth does not decide value.
Justice and Forgiveness: Tom is punished many times unfairly. Others lie about him to hurt him. Still, he forgives them without anger. Allworthy wrongly sends Tom away. Later, he realizes the truth and forgives him. Sophia also forgives Tom at the end. Forgiveness brings peace to every character. The story teaches mercy is better than revenge.
Corruption of Society: London society is full of lies and greed. People pretend to be kind for gain. Lady Bellaston tries to control Sophia. Blifil tries to ruin Tom’s future. Rich and noble people misuse power. Real goodness is found in simple people. The novel mocks rich hypocrisy and city pride.
Fate and Identity Revealed: Tom’s birth is a mystery at first. No one knows who his parents are. Society judges him for being fatherless. At the end, his real parents are revealed. He is Mr Allworthy’s nephew by birth. The truth brings justice and peace. The hidden identity changes his whole life.