English Literature

Henry Fielding undoubtedly holds moral views far-ahead of his times. Morality is an approval of adherence to principles that govern ethical and virtuous conduct. Fielding was accused of being immoral in his novels. Dr. Johnson called his novels "vicious and corrupting". Richardson echoed the "charge of immorality" against him. Modern critics, however, has justified Fielding and gave him a credit of "an estimable ethical code". Strachey declared him a "deep, accurate, scientific moralist". Indeed neither "Joseph Andrews" nor "Tom Jones" strikes the modern sensibility as 'low' or 'immoral' either in purpose or in narration. Behind the truthful portrait of life, lies his broad moral vision. His writings are informed by an aim of correcting mankind with laughter. "I have endeavored to laugh at mankind, out to their follies and vices." His satire is prompted by the positive and healthy desire to reform...

IDEA OF KNOWLEDGE IN IDEA OF A UNIVERSITY Henry Newman's The Idea of a University is a landmark in the field of education. His definition of knowledge or education is truly unique. He treats it philosophically and scientifically rather than emotionally and fancifully. He does not see the subject, like Bacon, from the viewpoint of a utilitarian or pragmatic or expedient thinker. He sees it both realistically and spiritually. His main objective in defining knowledge is the enlargement of mind, the widening and cultivation of intellect and the purification of thought. Knowlwdge : according to Newman, " knowledge is a state or condition of mind". Such knowledge is the permanent attribute of mind. In this essay, Newman is of the opinion that knowledge is something which is a power. He says. "I only say that, prior to its being a power, it is a good; that it is, not only an instrument, but an end. I know well it may resolve itself in...