Henry Fielding

Definition

Henry Fielding was an English novelist and playwright, recognized as one of the founders of the modern novel. His works are significant for their contribution to the narrative form and their exploration of social issues, establishing a literary tradition that bridges early 18th-century storytelling with the evolving English novel.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fielding was born in 1707 and had a background in law before fully committing to literature.
2. He founded the first professional police force in London, known as the Bow Street Runners, demonstrating his interest in social reform.
3. His early works included plays and pamphlets, but he gained fame with novels like 'Joseph Andrews' and 'Tom Jones'.
4. Fielding's writing style blended humor with a serious examination of human behavior and morality.
5. He is often compared to his contemporary, Samuel Richardson, although their approaches to character development and narrative differed significantly.

Review Questions

• How did Henry Fielding's background influence his approach to novel writing and storytelling?
  • Henry Fielding's background in law and theater greatly shaped his narrative techniques and thematic focus in novel writing. His legal education informed his understanding of human nature and societal structures, which he critically examined through satire in his works. Additionally, his experience in playwriting helped him develop a keen sense of dialogue and character development, contributing to the depth and humor in his novels.
• Compare the thematic concerns present in Fielding's 'Tom Jones' with those found in earlier narrative forms.
  • In 'Tom Jones', Fielding explores complex themes such as morality, social class, and personal identity, showcasing a shift from the simplistic moral lessons common in earlier narratives. Unlike earlier forms that often depicted static characters with clear moral arcs, Fielding's characters experience growth and change throughout their adventures. This complexity allows readers to engage with social realities of 18th-century England, moving towards a more modern understanding of character development.
• Evaluate the impact of Henry Fielding's work on the development of the English novel as a genre.
  • Henry Fielding significantly influenced the development of the English novel by introducing innovative narrative techniques such as free indirect discourse and complex character arcs. His works laid the groundwork for future novelists to blend humor with social critique, enriching the genre's capacity for depth and commentary. By bridging early storytelling traditions with modern sensibilities, Fielding helped to establish the novel as a serious literary form capable of addressing pressing societal issues while entertaining readers.

Related terms

Tom Jones: A novel by Henry Fielding, published in 1749, which follows the adventures of a foundling and explores themes of virtue and social class.

Picaresque Novel: A genre characterized by the adventures of a roguish hero, often from a lower social class, which Fielding utilized in his narrative style.

Satire: A literary technique that uses humor, irony, and exaggeration to criticize or mock societal norms, prevalent in Fielding's works.