Henry Fielding

eBook, ePUB

An Apology for the Life of Mrs. Shamela Andrews (eBook, ePUB)

Enriched edition. A Satirical Twist on Virtue and Deception in 18th-Century Fiction

Kommentar: Glover, Jillian / Redaktion: Good Press

Beschreibung

In "An Apology for the Life of Mrs. Shamela Andrews," Henry Fielding presents a brilliantly satirical response to Samuel Richardson's "Pamela." This early 18th-century novel employs a blend of humor and critical reflection to dissect the social constructs surrounding virtue and morality in a rapidly changing British society. Through the character of Shamela, Fielding reveals the complexities and contradictions inherent in the ideal of the virtuous woman, employing a prose style that is both engaging and incisive, reflecting the characteristics of early novelistic forms and the burgeoning genre of satire. He cleverly constructs a narrative that allows for both social critique and personal reflection, making it a work rich in literary and historical context. Fielding, a prominent figure in the development of the English novel, was deeply influenced by the literary rivalries of his time, particularly with Richardson. His experiences as a playwright, and his interest in the ethical and moral questions of his day, informed his decision to create a sharp counter-narrative to Richardson's idealism. Fielding's adeptness at satire and understanding of character development are well exhibited in this work, as he seeks to expose the hypocrisy within the moral landscape of 18th-century England. This book comes highly recommended for readers interested in the evolution of the English novel and the interplay of gender and morality within literature. Fielding's wit and keen observation make "An Apology for the Life of Mrs. Shamela Andrews" an essential read for scholars and casual readers alike, inviting reflection on the tensions between societal expectations and personal truth. In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience: - A succinct Introduction situates the work's timeless appeal and themes. - The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists. - A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the era's events and influences that shaped the writing. - An Author Biography reveals milestones in the author's life, illuminating the personal insights behind the text. - A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings. - Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the work's messages, connecting them to modern life. - Hand-picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance. - Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

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Autor

Henry Fielding (1707-1754), a celebrated English novelist and playwright, is best remembered for his rich contributions to the development of the novel as a form of literary art. His birthplace was Sharpham, Somerset, and he was born into a family where aristocratic ties were combined with a keen interest in literature. Fielding's educational background included Eton College and a stint at the University of Leiden. Turning initially to drama, Fielding wrote approximately 25 plays before his focus shifted to the novel, largely due to the stringent censorship of theatrical pieces that prevailed at the time. A significant turn in his literary career came with his satirical work 'An Apology for the Life of Mrs. Shamela Andrews' (1741), an incisive parody of Samuel Richardson's 'Pamela'. This piece showcases Fielding's wit and his distaste for what he saw as the sham moralizing present in Richardson's novel. His most famous work, 'The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling' (1749), is widely regarded as one of the great achievements in English literature, applauded for its narrative inventiveness, complex characterization, and a vibrant portrayal of 18th-century English society. In 'Tom Jones', Fielding's literary style fluorishes, blending comedy with serious critique and showcasing his mastery of both the form and function of the novel. Fielding's remarkable narrative voice shaped the emerging novel genre, marking him as a pivotal figure in the literary world of his time and a significant influence on later novelists.

Produktdetails

• Verlag: Good Press
• Seitenzahl: 238
• Erscheinungstermin: 21. November 2019
• Englisch
• ISBN-13: 4057664653062
• Artikelnr.: 58435455