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 playwright best known for his rich, earthy humor and satirical prowess. Born on April 22, 1707, in Sharpham, Somerset, England, Fielding’s literary career began with plays that often drew the ire of the government for their political content. His transition to novels came after the Licensing Act of 1737 restricted his ability to write for the stage. Fielding’s most famous works include “Joseph Andrews” (1742) and “Tom Jones” (1749). “Tom Jones” is particularly noted for its intricate plot and vivid characters, establishing Fielding as a master of the picaresque novel. Besides his literary achievements, Fielding also had a substantial career in law and was a pioneer in the establishment of London’s first police force, the Bow Street Runners. Fielding’s writing is credited with laying the foundation for the modern novel, blending narrative innovation with keen social commentary. He passed away on October 8, 1754, in Lisbon, Portugal, where he had traveled in search of better health.

5 Interesting Facts about Henry Fielding

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

2. His satirical play “The Historical Register for the Year 1736” led to the Licensing Act of 1737, which censored British theatre.

3. Fielding’s first novel, “Joseph Andrews,” was initially conceived as a parody of Samuel Richardson’s “Pamela.”

4. He was appointed as London’s Chief Magistrate in 1748, where he worked tirelessly to reform the criminal justice system.

5. Despite his success, Fielding struggled with health issues throughout his life, exacerbated by gout and other ailments.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Henry Fielding

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

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

3. “It is not death, but dying, which is terrible.”

4. “Make money your god, and it will plague you like the devil.”

5. “The prudence of the best heads is often defeated by the tenderness of the best hearts.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Henry Fielding did not achieve significant wealth during his lifetime. His highest net worth is estimated to have been modest, as much of his income was consumed by his legal and medical expenses.

Children

Henry Fielding had five children with his first wife, Charlotte Cradock. Two of their children died young. After Charlotte’s death, he married her maid, Mary Daniel, with whom he had a further four children, although only one, a daughter named Sophia, survived into adulthood.