Lecture Notes: Henry Fielding and His Impact on English Literature

Introduction

Henry Fielding: Prominent author of the Enlightenment period (17th-18th century)
Known for storytelling, wit, and social commentaries
Often overshadowed by Orson Welles, Mary Shelley, Charles Dickens
Focus of the lecture: Fielding's history and impact on English literature

Born: April 22, in Somerset, England, to an aristocratic family
Early aptitude for literature and language
Tragic early life: Mother's death at age 11, custody battle between grandmother and father
- Grandmother believed father was irresponsible
- Patriarchy led to father's victory in custody battle
Attended Eton College, a prestigious boarding school
- Known as a breeding ground for political leaders (e.g., 20 PMs)
- Developed friendships, notably with William Pitt the Elder
- Honed literary skills and developed appreciation for classical literature

Began career in early 1720s in London theatre scene
Wrote plays, criticized government, first play: "Love in Several Masks" (1728)
- Led to Theatrical Licensing Act of 1737, limiting political satire in theatre
Shifted to legal career as a barrister but continued writing
- Wrote satirical political pieces under pseudonyms (e.g., H. Scribblers Scrundalus)
First novel: "Joseph Andrews" (1742)
- Satirical parody of sentimental novels
- Blended classical epic poetry and drama styles
- Established Fielding as a significant literary voice
Most famous work: "The History of Tom Jones, A Foundling" (1749)
- Considered a foundational English novel
- Explores themes of love, morality, and societal conventions
- Solidified Fielding's reputation as a master storyteller

Works served as commentary on societal issues (inequality, injustice, moral decay)
Used humour and satire to critique ruling class corruption
Founded and edited the "Covent Garden Journal" (1749), addressing social issues

Pioneered the English novel and set high standards for storytelling
Influenced subsequent writers (e.g., Jonathan Swift, Lawrence Stern, Charles Dickens)
- Known for sharp wit and social commentary
Realistic characters reflecting human nature, complex relationships
Mastery of dialogue and narrative techniques
- Captured nuances of different social classes
- Used multiple plotlines and authorial interventions
Inspired writers to address social issues through literature

Died at age 50 in Portugal while seeking treatment for health issues
- Illnesses: gout, asthma, psoriasis of the liver

Henry Fielding's contributions are significant and enduring in English literature
His innovative storytelling and blend of entertainment with social critique established him as a pivotal figure
Impact resonates in literature addressing social issues to this day