The Adventures of David Simple

The first and most famous novel by the sister of Henry Fielding, 'David Simple' is the story of one man's search for truth, honesty, and friendship in a corrupt and hostile world. Following the literary model of 'Don Quixote', David's adventures afford a witty satire on the manners and morals of London life. Fielding also drew on her own experience of financial insecurity as unmarried gentlewoman in her portrayal of her two heroines. As Cynthia and Camilla are thrown upon the goodwill of relatives and friends, Fielding offers a pointed critique of the position of women in her contemporary society.