Comment on the Plot Construction of the Novel “Tom Jones”.

    Henry Fielding's novel Tom Jones is a work of literary fiction that was first published in 1749. The novel is a complex work that explores a variety of themes, including the idea of morality and the role of society in shaping human behavior. In this article, we will examine the plot construction of the novel Tom Jones and explore how it contributes to the overall impact of the novel.

Plot Construction of Tom Jones:   

    The plot of Tom Jones is a complex and multi-layered narrative that follows the life of Tom Jones, a foundling who is raised by a wealthy landowner. The novel is divided into 18 books, each of which is further divided into chapters. The plot is constructed around a series of interconnected events and characters, and the narrative is driven by a variety of conflicts, both internal and external.

    The plot of Tom Jones is constructed around a series of conflicts and obstacles that the protagonist must overcome in order to achieve his goals. These conflicts are both internal and external, and they often arise as a result of Tom's desires and motivations. For example, Tom's desire for Sophia Western, the daughter of a neighboring landowner, is a major source of conflict throughout the novel. Tom's pursuit of Sophia often leads him into conflict with other characters, including Sophia's father, who disapproves of their relationship.

 You Can also Read: Fielding's Concept of Morality and Sexuality in "Tom Jones. 

     At the same time, however, the plot of Tom Jones is also constructed around a series of coincidences and chance events that shape the narrative. For example, Tom's chance encounter with the highwayman Black George is a pivotal moment in the novel, and it sets into motion a series of events that ultimately lead to Tom's arrest and trial for murder. These chance events add a sense of unpredictability and excitement to the plot, and they help to keep the narrative engaging and suspenseful.

    One of the most notable features of the plot construction of Tom Jones is the way in which Fielding uses a variety of narrative techniques to keep the reader engaged. For example, the novel is filled with cliffhangers and plot twists that keep the reader guessing about what will happen next. Fielding also uses a variety of narrative devices, such as flashbacks and foreshadowing, to create a sense of suspense and anticipation.

 You Can also Read: Henry Fielding's Art of Characterization in "Tom Jones"

    Another notable feature of the plot construction of Tom Jones is the way in which Fielding uses a variety of narrative perspectives to tell the story. The novel is narrated by an omniscient narrator who has access to the thoughts and feelings of all of the characters. This narrative perspective allows Fielding to explore the motivations and desires of the characters in great depth, and it adds a sense of complexity and nuance to the plot.

    Overall, the plot construction of Tom Jones is a complex and multi-layered narrative that is constructed around a series of conflicts and obstacles that the protagonist must overcome in order to achieve his goals. The plot is driven by a variety of internal and external conflicts, as well as a series of coincidences and chance events that add a sense of unpredictability and excitement to the narrative. Through his use of narrative techniques and perspectives, Fielding is able to create a rich and engaging story that continues to captivate and inspire readers today.