Moll Flanders

Definition

Moll Flanders is a novel written by Daniel Defoe, first published in 1722. The story follows the life of its titular character, Moll, who navigates a series of trials and adventures in 18th century England. The novel is significant as it represents one of the early examples of the modern novel, showcasing character development, complex plots, and themes of morality and society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Moll Flanders is often considered one of the first novels in English literature, influencing the development of the novel as a form.
2. The character Moll Flanders is portrayed as a resourceful and cunning woman who uses her intelligence to survive in a male-dominated society.
3. The novel addresses themes such as crime, poverty, and social mobility, reflecting the economic realities of the time.
4. Moll’s journey includes multiple marriages and encounters with crime, highlighting the complexities of morality and personal choice.
5. Defoe’s use of first-person narrative in Moll Flanders creates an intimate connection between the reader and Moll's experiences, making her struggles relatable.

Review Questions

• How does Moll Flanders exemplify characteristics of the picaresque novel genre?
  • Moll Flanders exemplifies characteristics of the picaresque novel through its focus on the adventures of a roguish protagonist who survives by her wits. Moll's journey includes various escapades, from engaging in theft to navigating her multiple marriages. This structure aligns with the picaresque tradition, which often highlights the protagonist's cleverness and resourcefulness in a corrupt society while providing social commentary on class and morality.
• In what ways does Moll Flanders reflect the themes of realism and social commentary prevalent in early 18th-century literature?
  • Moll Flanders reflects realism by portraying everyday life and societal issues such as poverty, crime, and social mobility. The detailed depiction of Moll's struggles and relationships provides insight into the challenges faced by individuals in her time. Defoe's focus on realistic scenarios allows readers to engage with the moral dilemmas and choices that shape Moll's life, illustrating broader societal concerns in early 18th-century England.
• Evaluate the significance of character development in Moll Flanders and its impact on the narrative structure of early novels.
  • The character development in Moll Flanders is significant as it marks a departure from earlier forms of literature that often featured flat characters. Moll evolves throughout her journey, exhibiting resilience and adaptability in response to her circumstances. This depth allows readers to connect with her on an emotional level and provides a nuanced exploration of themes like morality and self-identity. The focus on character growth contributes to the narrative structure of early novels, setting a precedent for future literary works that prioritize complex characters and intricate plots.

Related terms

Picaresque Novel: A genre of prose fiction that depicts the adventures of a roguish hero, often from a lower social class, who lives by their wits in a corrupt society.

Realism: A literary movement that aims to represent everyday life and society in an accurate manner, focusing on ordinary characters and plausible events.

Sentimental Novel: A genre that emphasizes emotional experiences and moral lessons, often focusing on the inner feelings and moral dilemmas of characters.