The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling, often known simply as Tom Jones, is a comic novel by the English playwright and novelist Henry Fielding. First published on 28 February 1749, Tom Jones is among the earliest English prose works describable as a novel.
Tom Jones is a foundling discovered on the property of a very kind, wealthy landowner, Squire Allworthy, in Somerset in England's West Country. Tom grows into a vigorous and lusty, yet honest and kind-hearted, youth. He develops affection for his neighbour's daughter, Sophia Western. On one hand, their love reflects the romantic comedy genre that was popular in 18th-century Britain. However, Tom's status as a bastard causes Sophia's father and Allworthy to oppose their love; this criticism of class friction in society acted as a biting social commentary. The inclusion of prostitution and sexual promiscuity in the plot was also original for its time, and also acted as the foundation for criticism of the book's lowness.
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"If this is your first 'classical' read it will be a struggle to start but is certainly easier going than others. The style and language take a degree of getting used to but once you've found your rhythm you will be rewarded with a good story and a brilliant insight into history." — Jensen (4 out of 5 stars)
"If this is your first 'classical' read it will be a struggle to start but is certainly easier going than others. The style and language take a degree of getting used to but once you've found your rhythm you will be rewarded with a good story and a brilliant insight into history."
" Would be much better if Henry Fielding didn't love himself so much. "
" Very funny and great if complimented with the movie. "
" Had to read this while at UCLA. HATED every single minute of it. HATED the movie too. "
" I agree with Coleridge about the perfection of the plot. The book is far superior to the overrated movie. "
" This got pretty tedious by the end. I don't recommend it. "
" no not that tom jones. Can't believe I actually read this. A little too long but got to love the 18th century English Prose. Or do you. funny nonetheless. "
" I read this my senior year in high school. we had to choose from a list, and this was the longest book on the list. I read it because I wanted to prove a point, but I liked it. It's been a long time ago though......the movie wasn't as interesting. "
" The irony and sarcasm in this classic is too delicious.... "
" This was assigned reading in college but I laughed a lot! "
" Hilarious and extremely perceptive. My new favorite book. "
" This book was one of the most joyful and transporting reading experiences of my life--poignant, funny, iconoclastic, and truly moral. I envy anyone reading it for the first time. "
" I think if I hadn't burnt myself out on old English novels I might have enjoyed this one more. It took awhile to get into the story , but I finally perservered. "
" This book is so darn long that I had a baby halfway through reading it, but I can't say that I was ever bored. Tom Jones, what a rogue. "
" Half way through this book I realized the author was trying to be funny. The second half I realized it just wasn't. "
" The lion of the picaresque. "
" Racy in its day, but pretty benign now. Nonetheless an good romp "
Henry Fielding (1707–1754) was an English novelist and dramatist known for his rich earthy humor and satirical prowess. His writings reflect his ongoing preoccupation with fraud, sham, and masks. Tom Jones is considered to be his greatest work.
Tom Conway (1904–1967) was a British actor best known for playing private detectives and psychiatrists—and for being George Sanders’ brother. He has many film, television, and radio credits to his name, including The Falcon’s Brother and Mark Saber.
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