Joseph Andrews | Vol. 1

Henry Fielding a prominent English novelist and dramatist of the 18th century wrote the book Joseph Andrews Volume 1. This humorous investigation of social and moral topics is a satirical work that is sometimes regarded as one of the earliest English novels. The narrative centers on Joseph Andrews the title character a morally upright and kind young man who serves an affluent household as a servant. As a result of his employers advances Joseph is wrongfully fired from his job which leads him on a series of adventures where he meets oddball individuals. Fielding makes comments on the societal injustices hypocrisies and moral decay that are pervasive in society using wit comedy and satire. The first volume of Joseph Andrews by Fielding uses a narrative technique known as mock epic or mock-heroic which is a satire of the vogue in literature at the period. Henry Fieldings skill of sarcasm sharp insight into human character and capacity to amuse readers while making social criticism are all on display in Joseph Andrews Volume 1. Those who like classic literature and social satire will find the works deft wit and fascinating narrative to be a vital contribution to the evolution of the English novel.