Moll Flanders

Name: Moll Flanders
Author: Daniel Defoe

By Daniel Defoe

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About This Book

A first-person memoir traces a woman's turbulent life from humble beginnings through cycles of marriage, prostitution, theft, transportation, and eventual repentance. Presented as a candid confession, the narrative examines pragmatic survival, moral ambiguity, and the roles of chance and self-interest. Episodic chapters alternate domestic scenes, criminal ventures, imprisonment, and colonial experience to reveal how social constraints and limited opportunities shape choices. The voice balances rueful reflection with practical detail, exploring themes of agency, shame, penance, and the tension between economic necessity and ethical judgment.

About the Author

Daniel Defoe

Daniel Defoe was an English writer and journalist, best known for his novel "Robinson Crusoe," which is often regarded as one of the first novels in the English language. Born in the late 17th century, Defoe's work spans various genres, including fiction, travel writing, and political pamphlets. His keen observations of society and human nature are evident in his historical accounts, such as "A Journal of the Plague Year," which reflects on the Great Plague of 1665. Defoe's writings often blend adventure with social commentary, showcasing his versatility and depth as a thinker and storyteller.