The Synthesis of Moll Flanders and Roxana

Paper Summary:

The paper discusses Daniel Defoe's novels "Roxana: The Fortunate Mistress" and "The Fortunes and Misfortunes of Moll Flanders", which depict the heroines as trapped in a patriarchal society. The paper then looks at J.M. Coetzee's "Foe", which provides a synthesis of Defoe's heroine icons through the character of Susan Barton. The paper demonstrates how Roxana and Moll display attributes of male strength through determination and will, while Coetzee's Susan Barton and accompanying characters attempt to reflect the Defoe feminism in a more flexible light.

From the Paper:

"Defoe's Roxana and Moll Flanders are stark representations of the 19th century struggle for women who sought a place in society for themselves. In the midst of British Imperialism, the role of the woman remained static, while opportunities to become successful in business, education and politics expanded. This background is essential in the setup of both Roxana and Moll, as the characters battle from shoddy upbringings to the pinnacle of wealth and social acceptance. Moll's rise through the social and class ranks of society begins as an orphan. Through marriage after marriage, Moll takes on a variety of roles, from housewife, con-artist, to thief to convict. It is important to note the tone of the narration, as Moll seems nonchalant in explanation of her history: "...and let any one judge what must be the anguish of my mind, when I came to reflect that this was certainly no more or less than my own mother, and I had now had two children, and was big with another by my own brother, and lay with him still every night." (Defoe 20). The ending is happy however, and the main point is not lost as a result. Although Moll eventually finds happiness in America, it is the trials and tribulations that defines her as a male equal."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Coetzee, J.M. Foe. New York: Penguin, 1988.
• Defoe, Daniel. Moll Flanders. New York: Penguin Classics, 1992.
• Defoe, Daniel. Roxana. New York: Penguin Classics, 1990.

More papers on The Synthesis of Moll Flanders and Roxana:

• Book Review # 131293 : "Coetzee's Synthesis of "Moll Flanders" and "Roxana"
• Analytical Essay # 50230 : "The True Love of Moll Flanders: Money"
• Comparison Essay # 96596 : "The Death of Ivan llyitch" and "The Metamorphosis"

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