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 to her father and mother, continuing where she left off in her previous letter. She felt a sense of dread for the rest of the day. That evening, Mr. B summoned her to come see him, and Mrs. Jervis came with her. He explained to Mrs. Jervis that, despite how Pamela looked earlier, he only put her on his knee and kissed her. Pamela said that with his talk of Lucretia, Mr. B seemed to be threatening to go further. Ultimately, however, Mr. B convinced Mrs. Jervis that Pamela was being insolent and disrespecting Mr. B’s honor.
This scene once again illustrates the enormous power imbalance between Pamela and Mr. B. Although Mrs. Jervis constantly worries for Pamela and even treats her like a daughter, she nevertheless allows herself to be swayed by Mr. B’s authority. This scene illustrates how difficult it is to overcome biases related to class and gender.
Themes
Quiz
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Pamela writes that Mrs. Jervis made Mr. B promise not to assault Pamela again. Mr. B, however, said he wanted to send Pamela back to her father and mother. Now, Pamela writes to her parents that she looks forward to seeing them soon. In the postscript, however, she adds that she is busy with the linens and a few other tasks, so it may be a week before she gets away.
After his previous failures, Mr. B has learned how better to manipulate Pamela and the people around her. Pamela’s own behavior at this point in the story becomes a little unusual. Despite how many times she’s repeated her wish to go back and see her parents, she nevertheless seems to stall as the moment actually approaches
Themes
Quiz
Test Yourself
