(BLOCK-1) (UNIT-4) CHARACTERS AS CHARACTERISATIONS (MEG-201)

1. What do you understand by the term “characters as characterisations”? Do characters in a work of fiction not reflect “actual” men and women in life? How would you relate to the characters in Tom Jones'? Discuss. 

"Characters as characterizations" refers to the portrayal of characters in a work of fiction as deliberate constructions by the author, intended to convey certain traits, personalities, and behaviors. In other words, characters are not intended to be literal representations of real people, but rather fictional constructs that serve a specific narrative purpose.

While characters in a work of fiction may draw inspiration from real people, they are not meant to be exact replicas of actual men and women in life. Instead, authors may use certain aspects of real people's lives and personalities as a starting point to create fictional characters that fit within the context of their story.

In the case of Tom Jones, the characters are intentionally crafted to represent certain archetypes and satirical caricatures. For example, Tom himself is portrayed as a handsome and charming young man, but also as impulsive and often reckless. Similarly, the character of Mr. Allworthy is depicted as a benevolent and wise patriarch, but also as overly trusting and naive.

I can say that as a reader or viewer, one can relate to the characters in Tom Jones on multiple levels. Some readers may sympathize with Tom's struggles and flaws, while others may find him frustrating or unlikable. Similarly, some readers may appreciate the wit and humor of the satirical elements, while others may find them offensive or outdated.

Overall, the characters in Tom Jones are intended to be larger-than-life representations of certain human qualities and flaws, rather than direct reflections of real people.

2. How do we reach Fielding’s point of view in Tom Jones? What role does it play in the shaping of characters and situations in the novel?

In Tom Jones, Fielding's point of view is primarily conveyed through the narrative voice and the authorial commentary. Fielding uses a third-person omniscient narrator who not only describes the events of the story but also provides commentary and interpretation of the characters and situations.

Fielding's point of view is critical to the shaping of the characters and situations in the novel. Through the narrator's commentary, Fielding offers moral judgments and social criticism of the characters and their actions. For example, Fielding often comments on Tom's impulsive behavior, his womanizing tendencies, and his lack of responsibility, portraying him as a flawed but ultimately sympathetic character.

Fielding's point of view also allows him to create a satirical tone throughout the novel, often mocking the social customs and behaviors of the characters. For instance, he ridicules the hypocrisy of characters like Blifil, who presents himself as virtuous but is actually manipulative and deceitful.

Additionally, Fielding's point of view allows him to create a sense of irony and humor in the novel, often through his commentary on the characters and their situations. For example, he highlights the ridiculousness of Squire Western's attempts to marry off his daughter to Blifil, despite her obvious distaste for him.

Overall, Fielding's point of view is crucial in shaping the characters and situations in Tom Jones, allowing him to provide commentary, satire, and humor that give depth and meaning to the story.