What discovery was made about the parentage of Tom?

Answer

What discovery was made about the parentage of Tom?

In Henry Fielding’s (1707-1754) “Tom Jones” (1749), the discovery about Tom’s parentage is a major turning point in the novel. The discovery reveals that Tom is actually Mr. Allworthy’s nephew. Mrs. Waters reveals that she is not the real mother of Tom. Tom’s real mother was  Bridget Allworthy, Mr. Allworthy’s sister.

Tom, A Foundling: At the beginning of the novel, Mr. Allworthy finds a baby on his bed at Paradise Hall. The baby was wrapped in blankets, and no one knew who the parents were. Mr. Allworthy is a kind man, so he decides to raise the baby as his own child. He names him Tom Jones.

People in the village think Jenny Jones (later becomes Mrs. Waters) is the mother of the baby. So, she leaves the village to avoid shame. Everyone believes Tom is a poor, foundling child with no family.

Tom’s Real Parents: Later in Book 18, Mrs. Waters tells Mr. Allworthy that Tom is the son of his sister, Bridget Allworthy:

“Your sister was the mother of that child you found between your sheets.”

Tom’s real father was a young clergyman named Summer. Summer had been living in Mr. Allworthy’s house and died of smallpox all of a sudden in his youth. She also says Miss Bridget told her to place the baby on Mr. Allworthy’s bed. She and her mother helped hide Bridget’s secret pregnancy. She took the blame to protect Bridget’s honour.

Significance: This discovery changes Tom’s life. Mr. Allworthy realizes Tom is his own nephew. Tom is no longer a foundling but a rightful member of the Allworthy family. Tom would inherit Allworthy’s wealth. This ending provides a satisfying conclusion to the story.

Finally, the discovery of Tom’s parentage brings him justice and family love. It also allows him to marry Sophia and live a happy life.