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THA ADVENTURES OF RODERICK RANDOM
Tobias George Smollett was a creator of realistic works in which he contributed to the
description of the 18th. century England.Like Fielding , he belonged H
to the democratic wing of the Englishmen of the Enlihgtenment , and his attitude towards the aspects of society was evan more critical than that of Fielding
His first novel , The Adventures of Roderick Random , was published in 1748. This novel is rich in autobiographical elements.It is the story of a young disinherited Scotsman who goes to London, where he has many unpleasant experiences.He is taken on a battleship, has many adventures at sea, visits France and then goes to South America(Buenos Aires)and takes part in battles.
Then he goes to the West Indies where after many other unpleasant adventures he is imprisoned.He earns a hard living , makes unsuccessful advances to two women, Melinda Goosetrap and Miss Snaper.Finally he marries Narcissa, the girl he loves.
The Adventures of Roderick Random give the writer the opportunity of satirizing many negative aspects of Scottish and English life and showing his symphaty for the victims of corruption in the navy and government institutions.
In describing life at sea , Smollett becomes the founder of the English nautical novel, which was in a way started by Defoe.
In his novel he describes an expedition that Roderick Random was forced to take part in.This gives Smollett the opportunity of describing and unmasking the ignorance of the commanders both in the army and the navy and the sufferings of sailors who must starve and are tormented by diseases , are beaten up etc.The hero himself is much under the influence of this corrupted socity and frequently he proves to be selfish, hard-hearted and unfair.
Published: November 26, 2007
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