Introduction of Moll Flanders

INTRODUCTION

If Robinson Crusoe is the only Daniel Defoe novel you've ever read, then chances are you might not be inclined to read one of his other works just for pleasure. But Moll Flanders is just that; an exceptionally good read, even if your literary taste is not, say, erudite.
Written in 1722, Moll Flanders is the story of, well, despite the title of the book, we never know the true name of the book's main character, but she is a lusty wench whose marriage record puts Elizabeth Taylor's to shame. Born in prison, living numerous years as a thief and a prostitute, often not knowing where her next meal is coming from, Moll is constantly teetering on the edge of poverty and incarceration, many times falling into both. Our heroine goes through husband after husband (without ever actually bothering to go through divorce proceedings - including the time she married her brother by mistake), and child after child (most of whom she unflinchingly gave away), all the time remaining resilient and hopeful in her search for respect and stability.
In Moll Flanders, Defoe brings his characters to life so well that I can honestly say this book taught me more about real everyday life among the poor in 17th Century England than the class I took on 17th Century England. Moll is written with humor and street-level honesty, and, despite being written in 18th century English, is very easy to read. So if you feel the need for some good scandal, sex, indulgence, and debauchery, Moll will give it you. A far cry from Mr. Piety on his deserted island, huh?

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