THE CONCEPT OF VIRTUE IN RICHARDSON’S PAMELA OR VIRTUE REWARDED:
In Samuel Richardson’s novels, a moral intention has been glaringly evident, where his imaginary characters frequently escaped strict schemata. His novels speak volumes of complacent and calculating middle class morality. In his notable work, Pamela or Virtue Rewarded, the protagonist reaps the dividends of her virtuous nature by marrying an affluent nobleman. In Christianity, virtue is fundamental to Christian ethics. There are seven types of virtues, consisting of the four “natural” virtues, those inculcated in the old pagan world that spring from the common endowment of humanity, and the three “theological” virtues, specifically prescribed in the Christianity emblem of special gifts from God. Virtue is defined as “conformity of life and conduct with the principles of morality.” The virtues are the positive attitudes and habits adopted in obedience to moral principles. They are conventionally seven in number, each as a counterpart to the seven deadly sins. In Pamela,