History of Tom Jones, a Foundling
by Henry Fielding · Humorous stories
Henry Fielding's picaresque masterpiece of 18th-century English life.
Henry Fielding's sprawling masterpiece tells the story of Tom Jones, a foundling raised by the kind-hearted Mr. Allworthy in rural England. Tom grows up as a spirited and impulsive young man, full of vitality and generosity but prone to mistakes. When he falls in love with Sophia Western, the daughter of a neighboring squire, their romance is complicated by social expectations and the schemes of Blifil, Mr. Allworthy's nephew. As Tom is banished from the estate and sets out on a series of adventures across England, he encounters a colorful cast of characters and faces numerous challenges that test his character. The History of Tom Jones is a lively and engaging exploration of virtue, love, and the complexities of human nature.
Highlights
- Lively picaresque adventure that entertains
- Fielding's sharp wit and humor
- Richly detailed 18th-century setting
- Memorable characters and plot twists
- Engaging storytelling that captivates
Why read it
- A classic picaresque novel that entertains from start to finish
- Fielding's sharp wit and humor delight throughout
- Richly detailed portrait of 18th-century English society
Related classics
- A Room with a View — E. M. Forster
- Emma — Jane Austen
- Pride and Prejudice — Jane Austen
- Crime and Punishment — Fyodor Dostoyevsky