Comment on the plot construction on Tom Jones.
Tom Jones represents a consummate skill in
construction. The clear symmetry of the frame within which the story is
embodied, becomes evident when we examine its structure. The novel is made up
of eighteen books. The book is further divided into three parts. The first six
books are confined to Tom’s life spent in the country side. The next six books
devote themselves to the journey of Tom and some of the other characters, and
are in the tradition of the picaresque. The last six books deal with the life
in London, culminating in the resolution of various complications.
The introduction of the various groups of
characters is done with a certain sense of order. We are first shown Squire
Allworthy, then his servant, Mrs.Wilkins. Then comes Bridget, the sister of
Allworthy after whom we are introduced to Jenny Jones, who is soon taken to be
the foundling’s mother. The second book sees the grouping round Jones. Captain
Blifil tries his best to remove Tom from the house. The book also sees the
stage cleared of Jenny Jones and Partridge, who go elsewhere to work out their
destiny. Captain Blifil’s death leaves the stage ready in the third book for
Tom and young Blifil. There is a contrast shown between their characters and in
the opinions of their close associates regarding them.
The novel thus goes along a well organized and planned path. It is so
smoothly and symmetrically planned that Books IX and X are not only the
mathematical centre of the novel, but also the central point from the point of
view of the action. It is the comic peripety of the novel. It is clearly an
example of Fielding’s technical skill. The scene at Upton Inn is remarkable for
its place in the structural unity of the work. Tom Jones and Partridge arrive
at the inn, along with a woman whom they know as Mrs. Waters, but who, in
really, is Jenny Jones. Thus Jenny Jones is re-introduced in the middle portion
of the book. She has a significant part in the development of the plot. In the
preceding chapters, the situations have been set in such a manner as to ensure
all the important dramatis personae in the two ‘pursuits’ (i.e., Sophia behind Jones,
and Squire Western after Sophia) to converge on the inn. Uptil this point in
the narrative, Sophia is pursuing Tom. Once at Upton Inn, she comes to know of
Tom’s escapade with Mrs. Waters. She leaves in disappointment. From now on it
is Tom who will pursue Sophia. The middle of the novel thus sees a reversal of roles
in the hero and the heroine’s actions. The scenes at Upton are very important;
for they are the culminating point after which the action moves towards its
denouement. New characters, who are introduced, are all relevant parts of the
action of the story.................................................................
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