Voloshkova N. Henry Fielding's social and political outlook (the first part of the XVIII century)

The thesis deals with the social and political outlook of Henry Fielding, famous British writer, journalist and lawyer. Complex analysis of the political, social, ethical and religious aspects of his outlook is given. His ideas and thoughts of the society - its past, present and future - are considered in the context of the ideological heritage of the British Enlightenment. Also the spectrum of the problems concerning bringing-up and education of young people is given and the position of Fielding is highlighted as well. Special attention is drawn to the writer's attitude to the problem of social position of the British women. It is proved that Fielding's outlook was identical to that of the Enlightenment philosophers. The treatment of his life and activities in the context of his epoque permits to state the following: the writer always maintained a dialogue with the Enlightenment thinkers. It is underlined that the writer spread the basic ideas of the Enlightenment philosophers among the wide circles of the people by making them popular throughout his professional activities and literary work.