"An Apology for the Life of Mrs. Shamela Andrews" by Henry Fielding is a funny story that makes fun of other books from the 1700s, and is set during a time in the Restoration period when being proper and moral was considered important. It is a parody of "Pamela," shining a light on the main character, Shamela who is dishonest as she climbs the social ladder. The story is told through letters written by Shamela Andrews, a clever maid who plays with the affections of men like the awkward Squire Booby and the sneaky Parson Williams. Unlike the virtuous character in "Pamela," Shamela is shown as smart but manipulative, using her looks and intelligence to get ahead, even if it means hurting other people in the process. The book pokes fun at the idea of being virtuous and the difference between what people seem to be and what they are really like. Shamela eventually marries Squire Booby and this shows her down-to-earth attitude toward relationships.
An Apology for the Life of Mrs. Shamela Andrews
By Henry Fielding
A conniving maid uses her wits to trick clueless suitors into marriage, proving that appearances can be deceiving.
Summary
About the AuthorHenry Fielding was an English writer and magistrate known for the use of humour and satire in his works. His 1749 comic novel The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling was a seminal work in the genre. Along with Samuel Richardson, Fielding is seen as the founder of the traditional English novel. He also played an important role in the history of law enforcement in the United Kingdom, using his authority as a magistrate to found the Bow Street Runners, London's first professional police force.
Henry Fielding was an English writer and magistrate known for the use of humour and satire in his works. His 1749 comic novel The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling was a seminal work in the genre. Along with Samuel Richardson, Fielding is seen as the founder of the traditional English novel. He also played an important role in the history of law enforcement in the United Kingdom, using his authority as a magistrate to found the Bow Street Runners, London's first professional police force.
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