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Henry Fielding's role as a foundational figure in the development of the English novel is highlighted through his major works like 'Joseph Andrews' and 'Tom Jones'. His writing style, characterized by satire and realism, and his contributions to law and social reform, such as founding the Bow Street Runners, underscore his lasting impact on literature and society.
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Fielding's major works, including "Joseph Andrews," "Tom Jones," and "Amelia," are notable for their rich satirical vein and comedic elements, making him a pioneer in the development of the English novel
Use of Picaresque and Mock-Heroic Genres
Fielding's novels often draw on the traditions of the picaresque and mock-heroic genres, allowing him to employ satire to expose and critique societal norms and institutions
Vivid Portrayal of Eighteenth-Century Life
Fielding's novels are distinguished by their vivid portrayal of eighteenth-century life, providing incisive social commentary and critiquing societal norms and institutions
Fielding's novels focus on characters' experiences and interactions within their social milieu, departing from the era's conventional reliance on allegory and morality tales
Fielding's early life was beset with adversity, including the early death of his mother and a legal dispute over his guardianship
Education at Eton College and University of Leiden
Fielding was educated at Eton College and the University of Leiden, where he studied classics and law
Career as a Playwright and Barrister
Fielding began his literary career as a playwright, producing politically charged works critical of the government, before turning to law as a barrister due to censorship of theatrical productions
With the stage no longer a viable outlet for his political and social critiques, Fielding turned to the novel as a medium of expression, beginning with his satirical response to Samuel Richardson's "Pamela."
As a magistrate in London, Fielding played a pivotal role in establishing the Bow Street Runners, often considered the city's first professional police force
An Enquiry into the Causes of the Late Increase of Robbers
Fielding's writing on crime and poverty, such as "An Enquiry into the Causes of the Late Increase of Robbers," reflects his commitment to addressing societal issues and advocating for legal reform
A Proposal for Making an Effectual Provision for the Poor
Fielding's "A Proposal for Making an Effectual Provision for the Poor" highlights his dedication to promoting humanitarian justice and addressing poverty in society
Fielding's prose, marked by its lucidity, realism, and use of satire, reflects the values of the Augustan Age and continues to influence novelists and captivate readers