Henry Fielding's Tom Jones is a new adoption of Fielding's classic high spirited novel about a young man's misadventures and bawdy experiences in18th-century England. This six-hour production filmed on location throughout England follows this young man from bedrooms of rural inns to London's dangerous streets. Cast out from his home and forbidden his true love, Tom Jones must overcome the charms of an older seductress and the sinister plot of a nefarious rival to win his lover's heart. The handsome hero and his infectious exploits sparkle like never before in this lavish adaption of Fielding's 1749 masterpiece.

Part VI

The story of Tom Jones has come to an end. Tom finds out who his real parents are and gains the admiration of Allworthy once again. As for the villains of the story, they are punished for their evil deeds and banished from the Allworthy estate forever. During the last scene, Tom successfully woos Sophia for her hand in marriage and they live happily ever after. Recommended for high school courses in European History and Literature.

• afflict
• atheist
• atone
• calamity
• commendable
• contempt
• contrived
• deplore
• dispatched
• fervent
• obstinately
• recollect
• reconciliation
• unprecedented
• vigorous

1. Why was Tom thrown in jail? Did Tom commit a crime? Was Tom given a fair trial? Why or why not?

2. What does Sophia believe from a letter that Tom wrote to Lady Bellaston? What does Tom finally realize about the cause and effect of his actions?

3. Who unexpectedly appears in Tom's jail cell? What does this character tell Tom? How does this news lift Tom's spirits?

4. How does Mrs. Miller serve to point up Allworthy's imperfect perceptions? Was Mrs. Miller able to convince Allworthy of Tom's true character? Why or why not?

5. What was Mr. Partridge referring to when he said "Why, then, the Lord have mercy upon your soul, and forgive you, but as sure as I stand here alive, you have been to bed with her."?

6. What does Allworthy find out from the dying Mr. Square? What other events happen to confirm Mr. Square's confession to Allworthy?

7. Who are Tom's real parents? Which character reveals this information? Do you think it was honorable of this character to keep this secret for so long? Why or why not?

8. What was the outcome of the story? How does the 18-century philosophy that man can perfect his society if he follows his rational instincts relate to the story of Tom Jones?

1. Write a creative story using cause and effect. Are your characters following their rational or irrational instincts? How does this affect the outcome of your story?

2. Create a book cover for the story of Tom Jones. Share your book cover with your class.

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