Joseph Andrews

Definition

Joseph Andrews is a novel written by Henry Fielding, published in 1742, that is often recognized as one of the earliest examples of the English novel and a key text in the picaresque tradition. It tells the story of a young footman named Joseph Andrews and his adventures as he navigates through a world filled with social satire, morality, and various misfortunes. The novel critiques the hypocrisy of society and explores themes of virtue and integrity, making it a significant work that reflects Fielding's comedic approach to storytelling.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fielding wrote Joseph Andrews as a response to Samuel Richardson's Pamela, using it to parody Richardson's focus on virtue and sentimentality.
2. The novel employs a picaresque structure, featuring episodic adventures that reveal the characters' moral qualities and the absurdities of society.
3. Joseph Andrews is notable for its rich use of humor, showcasing Fielding's ability to blend serious themes with comedic elements.
4. The character of Joseph embodies the ideals of virtue and morality despite facing numerous temptations and challenges throughout his journey.
5. Fielding's narrative style in Joseph Andrews includes direct addresses to the reader, engaging them with witty asides and commentary on contemporary issues.

Review Questions

• How does Fielding use the character of Joseph Andrews to challenge social norms in the context of the picaresque tradition?
  • In Joseph Andrews, Fielding uses Joseph as a foil to illustrate the virtues of honesty and integrity against a backdrop of societal corruption. By placing Joseph in various humorous and absurd situations, Fielding critiques the moral failings of upper-class characters while celebrating Joseph's steadfastness. This juxtaposition highlights not only Joseph's character but also serves as a commentary on the societal expectations and norms that are often hypocritical.
• Analyze how satire functions in Joseph Andrews and its impact on the portrayal of 18th-century British society.
  • Satire in Joseph Andrews operates through humorous exaggeration and irony, enabling Fielding to critique various aspects of 18th-century British society such as class distinctions and pretentiousness. By portraying characters like Lady Booby, who represents moral hypocrisy, Fielding invites readers to reflect on the absurdities present in their own society. This satirical approach not only entertains but also provokes thought about ethics and societal values during that era.
• Evaluate the significance of Joseph Andrews in relation to the development of the English novel as a literary form.
  • Joseph Andrews is significant for its role in shaping the English novel by blending elements of realism with comedic storytelling. Fielding's work diverges from earlier narratives by incorporating complex characters and social commentary while maintaining an entertaining plot. As one of the first novels to embrace the picaresque tradition, it set a precedent for later authors to explore social issues within fictional narratives, thereby contributing to the evolution of the novel as a medium for both entertainment and critical reflection.

Related terms

Picaresque: A literary genre that follows the adventures of a roguish hero, usually of low social class, who lives by their wits in a corrupt society.

Satire: A genre of literature that uses humor, irony, and exaggeration to criticize or mock individuals, institutions, or societal norms.

Fielding's Comedies: The humorous works of Henry Fielding that often blend elements of comedy and social commentary, showcasing his critique of 18th-century British society.