The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling

Examine the persona that Fielding constructs as the author and narrator of The History of Tom Jones and discuss how this literary device enhances the structure and content of the novel as well as its satirical elements. You may wish to consider aspects that correspond with his personal life, such as position of judgment or his attitude toward literary critics.

Consider The History of Tom Jones as a satire and discuss the targets and the techniques most at play (including irony, sarcasm, hyperbole, and so on). What beliefs, conventions, attitudes, or cultural values are most prominently critiqued? Use specific examples from the text to support your argument.

Read The History of Tom Jones as a romance and discuss the various elements it borrows or inherits from this genre. How do the education of the hero and the adventures of the heroine function within the romance?