Joseph Andrews

When in 1740 Samuel Richardson published his novel Pamela, Henry Fielding was first stung into writing his lively parody Shamela and then inspired to produce, in a spirit of mocking rivalry, the immortal comic romance Joseph Andrews. A handsome youngster, Joseph becomes a footman in the Booby household, and while his own heart belongs to the innocent Fanny, he himself is continually besieged by the lustful Lady Booby and her maid, Mrs. Slipslop. His fortunes take Joseph on the road and among robbers, and there he encounters the unforgettable Parson Adams. The farcical brio of their further adventures has assured this delightful comic classic a lasting place in the affections of generations.