Description
This rollicking, bawdy satire with a heart of gold explores the many trials and tribulations experienced by Joseph Andrews as he journeys across the English countryside. Joseph is a servant in the Booby household, where he catches the eye of his mistress, Lady Booby. Enamored of Joseph’s masculine charms, Lady Booby makes a pass at him, prompting Joseph to defend his virtue and leave the estate. He sets off to find his sweetheart Fanny Goodwill, but soon after setting out Joseph is attacked, mugged, and left stark naked in a ditch. Fortunately, passersby rescue Joseph, and while recuperating at a local inn he runs into his old friend Parson Adams, who is trying to make money by selling his sermons. Happy to see each other, Adams and Joseph decide to travel together, and outlandish incidents continue to occur. Adams gets so wrapped up in philosophical discussions that he misses the stagecoach, and Joseph forgets his horse a few inns back. In another comic twist, the pair comes to the rescue of a damsel in distress—who turns out to be Fanny. When the three finally arrive back in the parish, Joseph and Fanny begin preparations for their marriage, but an unanticipated plot twist threatens their union at the last minute. Charming and hysterical, Henry Fielding’s slapstick novel is a delight for any reader.
Back to top
Opening Lines (Experimental)
VOL. I.
BOOK I.
CHAPTER I.
It is a trite but true observation, that examples work more forcibly on the mind than precepts: and if this be just in what is odious and blameable, it is more strongly so in what is amiable and praiseworthy. Here emulation most effectually operates upon us, and ...
Ratings for 'Joseph Andrews' by Fielding, Henry
Joseph Andrews
Send 134 installments for free as a gift.
Joseph Andrews
Receive installments for free
