Moll Flanders

Definition

Moll Flanders is a novel written by Daniel Defoe, first published in 1722, that follows the life and adventures of a young woman born in Newgate Prison who seeks wealth and security through various means, including crime and marriage. This novel is pivotal in illustrating Defoe's contributions to the development of the English novel by presenting complex characters and moral ambiguity, which were innovative for its time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Moll Flanders is often considered one of the earliest examples of the novel form, showcasing a deep psychological insight into its main character.
2. The novel portrays Moll as a resourceful and resilient woman navigating a male-dominated society, reflecting early feminist themes.
3. Moll's various marriages and criminal activities highlight the precariousness of women's financial independence during the 18th century.
4. Defoe uses a first-person narrative to create an intimate connection between Moll and the reader, making her moral dilemmas more impactful.
5. The character of Moll Flanders challenges traditional notions of virtue by portraying her as both a victim and an opportunist in her quest for survival.

Review Questions

• How does Moll Flanders embody characteristics of the picaresque genre?
  • Moll Flanders exemplifies the picaresque genre through its episodic structure and focus on the adventures of a cunning protagonist. Moll navigates various social situations as she seeks wealth, often using deceit and manipulation. Her journey is marked by encounters with different characters and environments that showcase her resourcefulness and adaptability, reflecting the hallmark traits of a rogue hero typical in picaresque narratives.
• In what ways does Defoe use Moll's experiences to provide social commentary on gender roles in 18th-century England?
  • Defoe utilizes Moll's experiences to critique the limited options available to women during the 18th century. Through her various marriages and criminal endeavors, Moll highlights the desperation faced by women seeking financial security in a patriarchal society. Her actions reveal how societal expectations constrain women's choices, demonstrating Defoe's awareness of gender inequality and his attempt to shed light on the struggles women endured.
• Evaluate the impact of Defoe's narrative voice in shaping reader perceptions of Moll Flanders as both a sympathetic character and a morally ambiguous figure.
  • Defoe's choice of first-person narrative in Moll Flanders significantly influences how readers perceive Moll as both sympathetic and morally ambiguous. By allowing Moll to share her thoughts and justifications directly, readers gain insight into her motivations and vulnerabilities, fostering empathy. However, her actions—often involving theft and manipulation—create moral complexity, challenging readers to grapple with their judgments of her character. This duality showcases Defoe's skill in creating nuanced characters that reflect broader themes of morality and survival.

Related terms

Picaresque: A literary genre that focuses on the adventures of a rogue or antihero, often depicting their exploits in a humorous or satirical manner.

Social Commentary: The act of using literature to critique or analyze social issues, norms, and values, often reflecting the author's views on society.

Narrative Voice: The perspective or persona through which a story is told, which can influence the reader's perception and understanding of the characters and events.