FIELDING

Dear Mrs. Goodhart,

Thank you for sharing with me the fascinating statistics on book-buying in the Upper Mississippi Valley. It’s intriguing to learn that Rev. E. P. Roe triumphs in popularity over Henry Fielding, signaling unique regional tastes. While I have not delved into Roe’s works, it’s apparent that your community might be missing out on the richness of Fielding’s contributions, despite acknowledged coarseness.

Dr. Johnson’s critique of “Tom Jones” as a “vicious book” contrasts sharply with Fielding’s nuanced moral landscape, where virtues of kindness, generosity, and honesty are celebrated amidst human foibles. Fielding, recognized for his humor and deep affection for humanity, does not shy away from depicting characters with all their imperfections. Yet, his portrayal of women, as seen through characters like Sophia Western and the heartfelt words of Mr. Wilson in “Joseph Andrews,” highlights a respectful and nuanced understanding of gender and virtue.

Fielding’s moral compass, while advocating for tolerance of youthful indiscretions, firmly condemns exploitation and celebrates the integrity of marriage. His works offer a vivid satire of 18th-century England, blending critical social commentary with an unwavering empathy for the less fortunate. Despite the coarse narrative and challenging themes, Fielding’s call for humanity and fairness remains compelling.

His advocacy for social reform through literature presents a moral framework that, despite its era-specificity, continues to resonate. Fielding’s combination of scholarly insights with an accessible and humorous narrative invites readers to reflect on societal virtues and vices.

In closing, your observation of Fielding’s comparative unpopularity raises compelling questions about literary tastes and the enduring impact of an author who masterfully balances moral inquiry with comedic brilliance. Fielding’s works, rich with character and wit, provide a window into the complexities of human nature and society’s foibles, offering timeless insights into the essence of integrity and compassion.

Warmest regards,

[Your Name]