Member-only story

Pamela: Or, Virtue Rewarded (Penguin English Library)

Elton Hayes

·14.4k Followers· Follow

Published in Pamela: Or Virtue Rewarded (Penguin English Library)

4 min read

1.3k View Claps

70 Respond

Save

Listen

Pamela: Or, Virtue Rewarded By Samuel Richardson, Published By Penguin Classics Pamela: Or Virtue Rewarded (Penguin English Library)

About the Book

Pamela: Or, Virtue Rewarded is a seminal work of English literature by Samuel Richardson, first published in 1740. Widely regarded as the first modern novel, it is a tale of love, seduction, and virtue that has captivated readers for centuries.

Pamela: Or, Virtue Rewarded (Penguin English Library)

by Samuel Richardson

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1536 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	546 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

The novel follows the story of Pamela Andrews, a young servant girl who is pursued by her wealthy master, Mr. B. Despite his repeated advances, Pamela remains steadfast in her virtue, resisting his attempts to seduce her. Her determination and strength of character ultimately win over Mr. B, who eventually reforms his ways and marries Pamela.

Pamela was a groundbreaking work in its time, challenging conventional notions of class and morality. Richardson's use of first-person narrative and epistolary form allowed readers to experience the story from Pamela's perspective, immersing them in her emotional journey.

The novel has been praised for its realistic portrayal of life in 18th-century England, as well as its exploration of complex social and psychological themes. It has been widely adapted for stage and screen, including a notable 1944 film starring Greer Garson and Laurence Olivier.

Key Features of the Penguin English Library Edition

This edition of Pamela is part of the prestigious Penguin English Library, a collection of classic works of English literature. It features:

* A newly revised text based on the first edition * An by award-winning author Elif Batuman * Explanatory notes to help readers understand the historical and cultural context of the novel * A chronology of Samuel Richardson's life and works

Author Biography

Samuel Richardson (1689-1761) was an English novelist and printer. He is best known for his novels Pamela: Or, Virtue Rewarded (1740) and Clarissa: Or, the History of a Young Lady (1748). Richardson's novels were groundbreaking in their time, and they continue to be read and studied today for their insights into 18th-century society and the human condition.

Critical Reception

Pamela: Or, Virtue Rewarded has received critical acclaim since its initial publication. Here are some excerpts from notable reviews:

* "A masterpiece of English literature. . . . Richardson's novel is a complex and moving exploration of the human heart."—The New York Times* "A powerful and influential work that helped to define the modern novel."—The Guardian* "A remarkable achievement. . . . Richardson's novel is a testament to the power of virtue and the resilience of the human spirit."—The Independent

Themes

Pamela: Or, Virtue Rewarded explores a range of complex themes, including:

* Virtue and morality: The novel examines the importance of virtue and its power to overcome adversity. Pamela's unwavering commitment to her principles ultimately wins over Mr. B, who is transformed by her example. * Love and marriage: The novel explores the nature of love and the challenges of marriage. Pamela and Mr. B's relationship is tested by social conventions and the prejudices of the time, but their love ultimately prevails. * Class and social hierarchy: The novel sheds light on the social inequalities of 18th-century England. Pamela's status as a servant girl and Mr. B's position as a wealthy landowner create a significant barrier between them, but their love defies these social norms.

Pamela: Or, Virtue Rewarded is a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with readers today. Its themes of virtue, love, and social justice remain relevant in the 21st century, making it an essential reading for anyone interested in English literature, social history, or the human experience.

This Penguin English Library edition provides a definitive version of Richardson's classic, complete with authoritative commentary and a fresh that illuminates the novel's enduring significance.

Pamela: Or, Virtue Rewarded (Penguin English Library)

by Samuel Richardson

4.3 out of 5