SOURCE: "Fielding's Definition of Wisdom: Some Functions of Ambiguity and Emblem in Tom Jones," in Henry Fielding: "Tom Jones": The Authoritative Text, Contemporary Reactions, Criticism, 2d ed., edited by Sheridan Baker, Norton Critical Edition, W.W. Norton, 1995, pp. 733-49. Originally published in ELH, Vol. 35, 1968, pp. 188-217.
In the following excerpt, originally published in 1968 and reprinted in 1995, Battestin, one of Fielding's most important modern biographers and critics, examines Fielding's treatment of the virtues of prudence and wisdom in Tom Jones. Battestin focuses on the character of Sophia, arguing that the novel's heroine and protagonit's love interest both embodies and portrays an idealized representation of Fielding's complex moral vision.
This is a free excerpt of 110 words. There are 9,500 words (approx.
32 pages at 300 words per page) in the full critical essay.
Read the rest of this Criticism with our Henry Fielding 1701-1754: Critical Essay by Martin C. Battestin Access Pass.
