Pamela, Or, Virtue Rewarded

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Samuel Richardson's Pamela tells the compelling story of a young woman's defiance against societal norms, edited by Peter Sabor with an introduction by Margaret A. Doody. The narrative follows fifteen-year-old Pamela Andrews, who, orphaned and vulnerable, is pursued by her deceased mistress's son. Despite her attraction to Mr. B, she resists his coercive advances, determined to protect her virtue and uphold her moral integrity. The novel, notable for its psychological depth in exploring themes of sex, freedom, and power, created a stir upon its release, featuring a servant heroine who boldly asserts herself. With a rich cast of characters, including the malevolent Mrs. Jewkes and the awkward country squire, the story blends humor with lively scenes. Doody's introduction discusses the epistolary genre and the complexities of women's roles and class distinctions. This edition, based on the 1801 text and incorporating corrections from 1810, presents Richardson's final version of the two-volume work. Born in Derbyshire in 1689, Richardson had limited formal education but became a prominent figure in London’s printing industry. Originally conceived as a collection of model letters, Pamela evolved into a groundbreaking novel upon its 1740 publication, which captivated readers nationwide. If you enjoyed this work, you might also appreciate Daniel Defoe's Moll Flanders, available in Penguin Classics.