The History of the Adventures of Joseph Andrews and of His Friend Mr. Abraham Adams

How was social class significant in 1742, when the novel was published? How were ideas about social class changing at this time? Why do you think Fielding included upper-class, middle-class, and lower-class characters in his story? What was Fielding trying to say about class structure?

Fielding uses comedic situations and characters throughout the novel. Why does he use satire rather than a different literary style, such as romance? What purpose does humor serve in the novel?

How would a typical 18th-century reader have responded to this novel versus a reader today? Which religious principles and cultural norms have changed since then, and which have not?