The novel begins with Joseph’s dismissal from the service of Lady Booby after he rejects her improper advances. Determined to reunite with his beloved Fanny Goodwill, Joseph embarks on a journey marked by a series of misadventures, comic encounters, and moral tests. Parson Adams, an eccentric but deeply principled clergyman, serves as both comic relief and a moral anchor. Through Joseph's trials, Fielding explores themes of chastity, honor, and the human capacity for kindness and deception, offering a penetrating critique of the social and moral landscape of 18th-century England.
Henry Fielding (1707–1754) was an English novelist and dramatist, known for his sharp wit, satirical prowess, and deep understanding of human nature. Fielding's major works include *Tom Jones* and *Joseph Andrews*, which are considered foundational texts in the development of the English novel. His works reflect a keen awareness of the moral and social contradictions of his time, blending humor and moral insight with a profound exploration of human virtue and vice.