G. M. (Gertrude M.) Godden
Henry Fielding: a Memoir
Including Newly Discovered Letters and Records with Illustrations from Contemporary Prints
"Henry Fielding: a Memoir" by G. M. Godden is a detailed biographical account that draws upon newly discovered letters and records to explore the life of Henry Fielding, the renowned English novelist, and playwright, likely written in the early 20th century. The memoir seeks to enhance the understanding of Fielding not merely as a significant literary figure but also as a complex man, shedding light on his childhood, his relationships, and his various contributions, including his role as a magistrate and social reformer. The opening of the memoir presents Fielding's early years, detailing his birth in the historically rich backdrop of Sharpham Park, Somersetshire, and the influence of his family’s status on his upbringing. Godden outlines Fielding's lineage, examining the early challenges his family faced, including the death of his mother and the subsequent economic struggles after his father's remarriage, which deeply affected young Fielding's education and character. The narrative introduces essential themes of resilience and humor, setting the stage for understanding how Fielding’s formative experiences nurtured his literary voice and shaped the moral lessons he would weave into his later works.