1.4 Henry Fielding and the picaresque tradition
4 min read•august 1, 2024
Henry Fielding's work marks a pivotal moment in the English novel. He blended the picaresque tradition with satire, creating a new form of comic fiction that critiqued society through humor and .
Fielding's approach differed from his contemporaries. He used an omniscient narrator, , and diverse characters to explore social issues, setting the stage for future developments in the novel form.
Picaresque Novel Tradition
Origins and Key Features
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- originated in 16th-century Spain featuring episodic adventures of a roguish protagonist from a lower social class
- First-person narrative characterizes picaresque novels creating an intimate and often unreliable perspective
- Satirical tone permeates picaresque works critiquing social norms and institutions through humor and irony
- Realism emphasized in picaresque tradition depicting harsh realities of lower-class life in corrupt societies (poverty, crime, social injustice)
- Loose, episodic plot structure distinguishes picaresque novels from tightly constructed narrative arcs
- Allows for a series of adventures or misadventures
- Facilitates exploration of various social settings and characters
Influence on 18th-Century English Literature
- Narrative style of picaresque tradition adopted by English authors shaping the development of the novel form
- central to picaresque elements in English literature exposing societal flaws and hypocrisies
- Focus on marginalized characters brought new perspectives to English literature giving voice to previously overlooked social groups
- Vehicle for exploring themes of social mobility, morality, and the human condition in 18th-century novels
- Blend of humor, realism, and social commentary in picaresque-influenced works contributed to the novel's evolution as a distinct literary form
- Adaptations of picaresque conventions in English literature included:
- Incorporation of satirical elements (exaggeration, irony)
- Use of episodic structure to explore diverse social settings
- Development of morally ambiguous protagonists
Satire in Fielding's Novels
Narrative Techniques
- Distinctive narrative voice combines omniscient commentary with direct reader addresses creating satirical distance from characters and events
- Irony employed to expose hypocrisy and pretensions of various social classes (aristocracy, clergy)
- Burlesque and parody incorporated to mock literary conventions and societal norms of Fielding's time
- Satirical character names and exaggerated personality traits highlight and critique specific social types and behaviors
- Situational and dramatic irony create humor and underscore thematic points about human nature and society
Social Commentary and Critique
- Focus on issues of class, morality, and the justice system reflecting Fielding's experiences as a magistrate
- Targets specific contemporary issues and figures requiring familiarity with 18th-century English politics and culture for full appreciation
- Exposes corruption and inefficiencies in legal and social institutions (courts, prisons, government)
- Critiques social mobility and the pursuit of wealth often portraying characters attempting to rise above their station
- Examines the concept of virtue and morality across different social classes challenging societal assumptions
Fielding vs Contemporaries
Narrative Approach and Structure
- Fielding employs more omniscient and intrusive narrator compared to first-person or epistolary styles of Richardson and Defoe
- Episodic and picaresque structure in Fielding's works contrasts with linear narratives of Defoe and focused character perspective of Richardson
- Metafictional elements incorporated by Fielding draw attention to novel-writing artifice and engage in literary criticism within works
- Fielding's novels feature more diverse characters representing various social classes compared to narrower focus of Richardson and Defoe
Thematic and Stylistic Differences
- Fielding prioritizes broad social satire and comic situations while Richardson focuses on psychological realism and moral instruction
- Less didactic approach to moral themes in Fielding's works compared to Richardson and Defoe
- Overtly comic and less sentimental tone in Fielding's novels reflects his background in theatrical comedy
- Fielding's works often address wider range of social issues and critiques compared to more focused themes of contemporaries
Fielding's Comic Novel Tradition
Innovation in Form and Style
- Development of "comic epic poem in prose" established new genre blending classical epic structures with contemporary comic sensibilities
- Omniscient, intrusive narrator became significant influence on later comic novelists contributing to free indirect discourse technique development
- Incorporation of social satire and commentary within comic framework set precedent for using humor as vehicle for serious critique in novel form
- Emphasis on plot complexity and large cast of characters influenced structure of subsequent comic novels expanding novel's scope
- Integration of burlesque and parody elements into novel form influenced development of literary satire and metafiction in later generations
Lasting Impact on Comic Fiction
- Exploration of relationship between author, narrator, and reader paved way for more experimental narrative techniques in later comic fiction
- Success in creating morally complex yet sympathetic protagonists established model for character development in comic novels
- Influence on subsequent comic novelists evident in:
- Use of irony and satire to address social issues
- Development of multi-layered plots with diverse character ensembles
- Incorporation of metafictional elements and literary self-awareness
- Fielding's approach to blending humor with social commentary continues to shape contemporary comic fiction and satire
Key Terms to Review (17)
Antihero: An antihero is a central character in a story who lacks conventional heroic attributes such as morality, courage, and idealism. Unlike traditional heroes, antiheroes often exhibit flaws, complexity, and questionable motivations, making them relatable and realistic. This complexity allows for a deeper exploration of themes like morality, identity, and societal norms, as seen in narratives that challenge the standard heroic archetype.
Bildungsroman: A bildungsroman is a literary genre that focuses on the psychological and moral growth of the protagonist from youth to adulthood. It often involves a journey of self-discovery and explores themes like identity, societal expectations, and personal development. The narrative typically follows the character through various challenges and experiences that shape their worldview and character.
Episodic Structure: Episodic structure refers to a narrative format that presents the story in distinct, self-contained segments or episodes, rather than following a linear plot. This approach allows for a series of loosely connected events, which can explore various themes and characters, often reflecting the unpredictability of life. In literature, especially in the picaresque tradition, episodic structure is used to emphasize character development and social commentary through a sequence of adventures or misadventures.
First-person narration: First-person narration is a narrative perspective where the story is told from the viewpoint of a character within the story, using 'I' or 'we' pronouns. This style creates a personal connection between the narrator and the reader, allowing insights into the narrator's thoughts, feelings, and experiences. It often leads to a subjective interpretation of events, making it a powerful tool in storytelling that shapes how the audience perceives the narrative.
Flat character: A flat character is a type of character in literature that is one-dimensional and lacks depth, typically embodying a single trait or characteristic without significant development throughout the narrative. These characters often serve specific roles in the story, such as comic relief or foils to more complex characters, and can help to advance the plot without engaging in deep personal growth or change.
Irony: Irony is a literary device where the intended meaning of words or events is opposite to their literal meaning. It often highlights discrepancies between expectations and reality, adding depth to storytelling. This can involve characters saying one thing but meaning another, situations unfolding in unexpected ways, or an outcome that contrasts starkly with what was anticipated.
Joseph Andrews: Joseph Andrews is a novel written by Henry Fielding, published in 1742, that is often recognized as one of the earliest examples of the English novel and a key text in the picaresque tradition. It tells the story of a young footman named Joseph Andrews and his adventures as he navigates through a world filled with social satire, morality, and various misfortunes. The novel critiques the hypocrisy of society and explores themes of virtue and integrity, making it a significant work that reflects Fielding's comedic approach to storytelling.
Miguel de Cervantes: Miguel de Cervantes was a Spanish writer best known for his novel 'Don Quixote', which is often regarded as one of the first modern novels. His work significantly influenced the development of the narrative form and is considered a precursor to the picaresque tradition, impacting later authors like Henry Fielding who drew on these themes in their own writing.
Morality vs. Immorality: Morality refers to the principles concerning the distinction between right and wrong or good and bad behavior, while immorality signifies actions that violate these moral principles. This dichotomy plays a crucial role in shaping character development and thematic exploration in narratives, often influencing the journey of protagonists and the societal norms surrounding them. The conflict between morality and immorality frequently reflects the complexities of human nature and social dynamics.
Picaresque novel: A picaresque novel is a narrative that follows the adventures of a roguish protagonist, often of low social class, as they navigate through a corrupt society. This genre typically employs a first-person point of view and features episodic plots filled with humor and satire. The picaresque novel emerged as a significant form of early prose fiction, reflecting the realities of social class and morality in a changing world.
Rogue: A rogue is typically characterized as a deceitful or mischievous individual, often operating outside societal norms and conventions. In literature, particularly within the picaresque tradition, rogues serve as anti-heroes, showcasing cleverness and charm while navigating a corrupt society. This character archetype highlights themes of survival, moral ambiguity, and social critique, making them essential to the narratives they inhabit.
Rural settings: Rural settings refer to areas characterized by open spaces, low population density, and a strong connection to agriculture or nature. These settings often influence the themes, character development, and narrative structures in literature, particularly in the context of the picaresque tradition, where characters navigate through different social classes and environments, often contrasting urban and rural lifestyles.
Satirical Fiction: Satirical fiction is a literary genre that uses humor, irony, exaggeration, and ridicule to criticize and expose the flaws, vices, and absurdities of individuals, institutions, or society as a whole. This form of fiction often aims to provoke thought and encourage social change by highlighting the shortcomings of the subjects it targets. It is commonly associated with sharp social commentary, making it a powerful tool for writers like Henry Fielding who engage with the picaresque tradition.
Social critique: Social critique refers to the analysis and evaluation of societal structures, norms, and practices, highlighting issues such as inequality, injustice, and oppression. This term emphasizes the role of literature as a medium for questioning social realities and advocating for change. It often manifests in narratives that reflect the struggles and experiences of marginalized groups, aiming to provoke thought and inspire reform within society.
Tobias Smollett: Tobias Smollett was an 18th-century Scottish novelist and playwright, known for his contributions to the development of the English novel and for his picaresque storytelling style. He is often associated with the picaresque tradition due to his focus on the adventures of a roguish protagonist, exploring themes of social criticism and personal morality, similar to those found in the works of Henry Fielding. His novels, such as 'The Adventures of Roderick Random' and 'The Expedition of Humphry Clinker,' blend humor with a sharp critique of society, showcasing the experiences of the lower classes amidst various societal challenges.
Tom Jones: Tom Jones is a novel by Henry Fielding, published in 1749, which is recognized as one of the earliest and most influential examples of the English novel. The story follows the adventures of its titular character, Tom, a foundling who embarks on a quest for love and identity while navigating a series of comedic and often absurd circumstances. This work is significant for its pioneering use of narrative techniques and its connection to the picaresque tradition, emphasizing themes of social class and moral ambiguity.
Urban Landscapes: Urban landscapes refer to the physical, social, and cultural features of cities and towns, including their architecture, infrastructure, public spaces, and the relationships between different communities within these areas. These landscapes reflect the complexity of urban life, showcasing both the opportunities and challenges faced by inhabitants. They play a crucial role in shaping human experiences and interactions in densely populated environments.