logo

83 pages 2 hours read

The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1749

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Book Brief

logo
Henry Fielding

The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1749
Book Details
Pages

975

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 18th Century

Publication Year

1749

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling narrates the adventures of Tom Jones, an orphan raised by the benevolent Mr. Allworthy. After being cast out for his reckless behavior, Tom roams southern England encountering various characters and romantic entanglements, notably with Sophia Western. Ultimately, after numerous trials and the revelation of his true parentage, Tom is reunited with his family and beloved Sophia. The novel contains references to sexual violence and familial sexual relations.

Humorous

Adventurous

Romantic

Playful

Informative

Reviews & Readership

4.0

35,017 ratings

62%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Henry Fielding's The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling is celebrated for its rich characterizations and intricate plot, offering a nuanced blend of humor and social commentary. Readers praise its lively prose and vivid storytelling. However, some criticize the novel's length and occasional digressions for affecting the narrative pace. Overall, it remains a significant work in the literary canon.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling?

Readers who enjoy intricate plots, vivid character development, and satirical humor in 18th-century literature will appreciate The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling by Henry Fielding. Fans of Moll Flanders by Daniel Defoe and Tristram Shandy by Laurence Sterne will find similar enjoyment in Fielding's work.

4.0

35,017 ratings

62%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Character List

Tom Jones

Tom Jones is the good-natured and impulsive protagonist who often gets into trouble due to a lack of foresight but is known for his loyalty and compassion.

A local magistrate known for fairness and compassion, whose difficulty perceiving others' motives often leads to poor judgments based on assumptions.

A young woman characterized by her beauty, kindness, and strong sense of justice, who falls in love with Tom and resists a forced marriage to Blifil.

An English country squire with uncultured tastes who insists on his daughter's obedience and serves as a foil to Mr. Allworthy.

A superstitious and pompous supporting character known for his foolishness and propensity to lie to serve his interests.

An unscrupulous and deceitful character, defined by his self-righteousness and malicious actions, serving as a foil to Tom.

A stubborn and vain woman who claims superior judgment and often acts out of self-interest while influencing her niece Sophia.

A virtuous landlady who is honest and perceptive, offering counsel and support to those in need while maintaining a respectable reputation.

A wealthy and independent widow with town standards, who becomes an obstacle in the relationship between Tom and Sophia.

Book Details
Pages

975

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 18th Century

Publication Year

1749

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.