Themes
Key
LitCharts assigns a color and icon to each theme in Pamela, which you can use to track the themes throughout the work.
The Value of Virtue
Class and Morality
Religion and Marriage
Sexual Politics
Summary
Analysis
Pamela writes a letter to her mother, but she fears that she doesn’t have much to write about and will sound vain repeating praise others have given her. Lady Davers, Mr. B’s sister, complimented how Pamela looks and acts, although she also advised Pamela to be mindful of her virtue.
While Lady Davers approves of how Pamela looks and acts, it’s only because here, Pamela shows modesty and deference, demonstrating that she’s aware of her lower status.
Themes
Quiz
Test Yourself
Pamela continues her letter. Later, Mrs. Jervis confirmed to Pamela that Lady Davers and Mr. B were praising her. Lady Davers did suggest, however, that perhaps Pamela was too pretty to live with a bachelor like Mr. B. In response, Mr. B agreed that maybe Pamela should go live with Lady Davers. Pamela tells all this to her parents, suggesting it’s proof that Mr. B has no bad intentions. Because of this, her mother and father should feel free to use the money she sent earlier.
Pamela takes everyone around her at their word, showing a respect for authority. This sets up one of the main conflicts for Pamela, because eventually she will have to choose between following the authority of her parents and her religion or following the authority of Mr. B and performing the duties of her job.
Themes
Quiz
Test Yourself
