Henry Fielding

Date of Birth: April 22, 1707

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: October 8, 1754

Biography

Henry Fielding was an English novelist and dramatist known primarily for his rich, earthy humor and satirical prowess. Born in Sharpham, Somerset, in 1707, Fielding is best remembered for his novels “Joseph Andrews” (1742) and “Tom Jones” (1749). His literary career began as a playwright, but he turned to novel writing after the Licensing Act of 1737, which made it more difficult for plays to be staged. Fielding was also a pioneering figure in the development of the modern novel and is often credited with creating the form of the comic novel. Beyond his literary achievements, Fielding had a significant impact on the legal system in England. In 1748, he became a magistrate and worked to reform the criminal justice system, founding what is considered one of the first professional police forces in London, the Bow Street Runners.

5 Interesting Facts about Henry Fielding

1. Henry Fielding co-founded the Bow Street Runners, often considered London’s first professional police force.

2. He was a half-brother to the famous writer Sarah Fielding, who authored “The Adventures of David Simple.”

3. Fielding’s novel “Tom Jones” is often hailed as one of the greatest comic novels in the English language.

4. Before becoming a novelist, Fielding wrote over 25 plays.

5. He was known for his satirical works that often critiqued the social and political issues of his time.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Henry Fielding

1. “A rich man without charity is a rogue; and perhaps it would be no difficult matter to prove that he is also a fool.”

2. “Love and scandal are the best sweeteners of tea.”

3. “Guilt has very quick ears to an accusation.”

4. “Adversity is the trial of principle. Without it, a man hardly knows whether he is honest or not.”

5. “Public schools are the nurseries of all vice and immorality.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Henry Fielding did not achieve substantial wealth during his lifetime. His highest net worth is not well-documented, but his contributions were more cultural and social rather than financial.

Children

Henry Fielding had five children with his first wife, Charlotte Craddock, but only one daughter, Sophia, survived to adulthood. He also had a daughter named Mary Amelia with his second wife, Mary Daniel.