Question

The rise of the novel in the later 18th century often coincided with an increasing interest in the domestic sphere and the lives of women. Which novel exemplifies this trend?

• A. Robinson Crusoe
• B. Pamela; or, Virtue Rewarded
• C. Gulliver's Travels
• D. Tom Jones

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Pamela; or, Virtue Rewarded

The Rise of the Novel and the Domestic Sphere

• The 18th century witnessed a significant shift in literary focus, with a growing emphasis on the domestic sphere and the experiences of women. This period is often referred to as the 'rise of the novel'.
• This literary trend reflected changing social attitudes and the emergence of a reading public that was increasingly interested in relatable, everyday lives, particularly those of women within the home.

Pamela; or, Virtue Rewarded by Samuel Richardson

• Pamela, published in 1740 by Samuel Richardson, is a seminal work that perfectly exemplifies the trend of focusing on the domestic sphere and female virtue.
• It is written in an epistolary format, consisting of letters exchanged between the protagonist, Pamela Andrews, a young servant girl, and her parents.
• The novel's plot revolves around Pamela's unwavering determination to resist the sexual advances of her wealthy master, Mr. B.
• Her 'virtue' is portrayed as her most prized possession, and the narrative explores her internal struggles, moral fortitude, and eventual triumph through maintaining her chastity.
• Significance in Literary History:
  • Pamela is considered one of the earliest true English novels and a foundational text for sentimental literature.
  • It popularized the epistolary novel form, influencing subsequent writers.
  • The novel's focus on the psychological interiority of its female protagonist was groundbreaking for its time.
  • It sparked considerable debate and imitation, including Henry Fielding's satirical response, Shamela.
• Themes Explored:
  • Virtue and Morality: The central theme is the triumph of virtue over temptation and the reward for moral integrity.
  • Social Class: The novel touches upon the power dynamics between different social classes, particularly the vulnerability of a servant to her master.
  • The Domestic Ideal: It reinforces societal expectations of female behavior, emphasizing chastity, obedience, and domestic skills.
• Relevance for Competitive Exams:
  • Understanding Pamela is crucial for grasping the development of the English novel and the thematic concerns of the 18th century.
  • Key elements to remember include its author, publication date, epistolary form, protagonist's name, central conflict, and its influence on subsequent literature.
  • Recognizing Pamela as a prime example of the novel's engagement with the domestic sphere and female experience is vital for answering questions on literary history and trends.