68 pages • 2 hours read
Pamela
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Book Brief
592
Novel • Fiction
England • 18th Century
1740
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Pamela by Samuel Richardson is an epistolary novel about 15-year-old maidservant Pamela Andrews, who resists the sexual advances of her new employer, Mr. B, after the death of Lady B, her previous kind employer. Despite Mr. B's repeated attempts, including abduction to his Lincolnshire estate, Pamela maintains her virtue. Mr. B eventually confesses his love and proposes, leading to their controversial but ultimately happy marriage. The novel includes references to attempted rape, sexual harassment, and thoughts of death by suicide.
Emotional
Romantic
Suspenseful
Inspirational
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
13,068 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Samuel Richardson's Pamela receives mixed reviews. Many praise its innovative epistolary format and complex character development, particularly the protagonist's moral resilience. However, critics argue that the plot is overly sentimental and didactic, with repetitive narrative elements. Overall, Pamela is celebrated for its historical significance but critiqued for its melodramatic tendencies.
Who Should Read Pamela?
Pamela by Samuel Richardson appeals to readers who enjoy epistolary novels, classic literature, and themes of virtue and social mobility. Fans of Jane Austen or Charlotte Brontë's Jane Eyre will appreciate its moral dilemmas and character development. This novel is ideal for those interested in 18th-century English society and romance.
13,068 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mr. B
Mr. B
A wealthy and powerful upper-class man who initially challenges Pamela's principles. Over time, his character is deeply impacted by Pamela's steadfast integrity.
Lady Davers
Lady Davers
Mr. B's aristocratic sister who is passionate about social hierarchy and initially opposes Pamela's rise in status. Her interactions with the main characters are driven by her strong opinions on class.
Mrs. Jewkes
Mrs. Jewkes
The housekeeper at Mr. B's estate, known for her harsh demeanor and fierce loyalty to her employer. Her behavior and attitude toward Pamela evolve throughout the story.
592
Novel • Fiction
England • 18th Century
1740
Adult
18+ years
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