Moll Flanders Novel

Moll Flanders Novel

• The novel tells the story of Moll Flanders, a woman born into poverty who becomes wealthy through a series of adventures and marriages.
• Moll's childhood is marked by poverty, with her father unknown and her mother forced to give her up to a rich family.
• She is sent to live with a distant relative, a thief and con artist, who teaches her the skills to survive in the world.

Moll's Life in London

• Moll moves to London, where she begins a series of marriages and relationships, each bringing her wealth and status.
• Throughout the novel, Moll faces challenges such as poverty, imprisonment, and betrayal.

Themes and Commentary

• The novel explores the concept of the "rise and fall" of the protagonist, Moll Flanders, commenting on the corrupt nature of society and the dangers of pursuing wealth and status at any cost.
• The novel is a commentary on the role of women in 18th century society, portraying Moll as a strong, independent female character who challenges traditional gender roles.
• The novel is seen as a critique of the society of its time, portraying the harsh realities of life for women in the 18th century, particularly those of lower social classes.

Literary Significance

• The novel is considered a classic of English literature and is often studied as an example of the picaresque novel, a genre of fiction that features a roguish hero or heroine who lives by their wits in a corrupt society.
• Moll's character is a classic example of the picaresque hero, using her wit and cunning to survive in a harsh and unforgiving society.

Legacy and Impact

• The novel has stood the test of time and continues to be widely read and studied.
• Its exploration of themes such as wealth, status, gender roles, and survival in a corrupt society make it a thought-provoking and timeless work of literature.