Samuel Richardsons first novel was Pamela (1740).

The theme of the novel is basically a folk theme, but the treatment is very different from anything to be found in folk literature. Squire B., whose mother had employed Pamela as her maid, is first bent on seduction and then on rape; he is dishonest, malevolent, cruel and persecuting. He does everything to get Pamela into his physical power, and at one stage is on the verge of committing rape when Pamela providentially falls into fits and scares him off. Yet, after Mr. B. has relented and sent Pamela home, she returns voluntarily when he sends for her, loving and admiring him at the same time, though disapproving of his attempts to dishonour her. When he finally convinces her that her continued successful resistance has led him to offer marriage, she is all humble love and passionate gratitude. Part 2 of Pamela was added in 1742. Richardsons readers were ardently responding to his treatment of the situation of their time. Richardson, by delineating models of virtue, sought to improve the morals of the age. The real problems facing the age were the existence at all levels of inordinate, arbitrary and irresponsible power against which the ordinary private citizen was helpless. Against an almost omnipotent authority Richardson pitted helplessness combined with virtue- and despite all hazards, helplessness combined with virtue triumphed. It was this that the age applauded: Richardson was the spokesman of justice.