Henry Fielding Quotes

A collection of quotes by Henry Fielding.

Henry Fielding (1707-1754) was an influential English novelist, playwright, and magistrate. He was born in Sharpham Park, Somerset, England, into a family with aristocratic connections. Fielding studied at Eton College and later at the University of Leiden in the Netherlands. Although he was initially interested in pursuing a career in law, he eventually found his true passion in writing.

Fielding's most famous work is the novel "Tom Jones" (1749), which is considered one of the greatest comic novels in English literature. It tells the story of a young foundling named Tom Jones and his adventures as he journeys through England in the 18th century. The novel combines elements of comedy, satire, and social criticism, offering a vivid portrayal of the society in which Fielding lived.

In addition to his novels, Fielding also wrote several plays, including "The Author's Farce" (1730) and "The Tragedy of Tragedies" (1731). He is often regarded as one of the pioneers of the modern novel and a key figure in the development of the genre.

Aside from his literary achievements, Fielding also had a successful career in law enforcement. He served as a magistrate and played a crucial role in the establishment of London's first professional police force, the Bow Street Runners. Fielding's commitment to justice and his experience as a magistrate influenced his writing, particularly in his satirical works that exposed social injustices and criticized political corruption.

Henry Fielding passed away in Lisbon, Portugal, in 1754, at the age of 47. His contributions to literature and his efforts in law enforcement have left a lasting impact and continue to be celebrated and studied to this day.