Article 3     Pages: 14-19

Fielding’s Balance of Emotion and Rationality

Dr. Mukesh P. Patil

Assistant Professor Pragati College of Arts and Commerce, Dombivli, (MS)

Date of Publication: 30 Dec 2024

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14976245

Abstract

Fielding’s novels, particularly Tom Jones, reflect a distinctive balance between emotion and rationality, which serves as a central theme in his exploration of human nature and moral complexity. Through his characters and narrative techniques, Fielding intertwines emotional experiences with rational thought, creating a rich tapestry that engages both the intellect and the emotions of the reader. This balance allows Fielding to delve into issues of virtue, morality, and social order while presenting a nuanced portrayal of human behavior. By blending theemotional depth of his characters with the logical structure of their decisions, Fielding offers a unique perspective on the interplay between emotion and rationality in the pursuit of virtue and personal growth. This paper examines how Fielding’s works navigate this balance, highlighting the ways in which emotional experiences shape character development and moral reasoning within the broader context of 18th-century literature.

Keywords: Fielding, emotion, rationality, morality