History of Tom Jones, a Foundling

"The History of Tom Jones, A Foundling" by Henry Fielding is a novel written in the early 18th century. The narrative revolves around the life of Tom Jones, a foundling raised by the benevolent Squire Allworthy, exploring themes of morality, love, and social class. The story is rich in characters and details, illustrating the intricacies of human nature and society’s response to vice and virtue. At the start of the novel, Fielding introduces Squire Allworthy as a compassionate and virtuous landowner who returns home from London to discover an infant boy, Tom, wrapped in linens in his bed. This event sets the stage for Tom's upbringing, as Allworthy decides to raise him as his own, despite the stigma attached to his illegitimate birth. The narrative also includes a humorous and philosophical commentary on human nature, inviting the reader to reflect on the follies and virtues of society through the interactions of characters like Allworthy, his sister Bridget, and the housekeeper Deborah. As Allworthy navigates the challenges of incorporating Tom into his life, the novel presents an exploration of how society views morality, innocence, and the social implications of being a "bastard" in a judgmental world. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Henry Fielding was an English writer and magistrate known for the use of humour and satire in his works. His 1749 comic novel The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling was a seminal work in the genre. Along with Samuel Richardson, Fielding is seen as the founder of the traditional English novel. He also played an important role in the history of law enforcement in the United Kingdom, using his authority as a magistrate to found the Bow Street Runners, London's first professional police force.