1. Mock-epic Tone: Joseph Andrews employs a mock-epic tone, which parodies the conventions and styles of classical epic poetry. It satirizes the grand and heroic language, exaggerated events, and idealized characters often found in traditional epics. Fielding uses humor, irony, and wit to create a comical effect while commenting on the social and literary conventions of his time.
2. Satirical Elements: The novel is a sharp satire on various aspects of society, including social hierarchy, class distinctions, corruption, and hypocrisy. Fielding uses humor and exaggeration to criticize the follies and vices of his time. He ridicules the upper-class characters for their vanity, pride, and false sense of superiority.
3. Heroic Characterization: While the protagonist, Joseph Andrews, does not fit the typical mold of an epic hero, he still exhibits certain heroic qualities, such as virtue, integrity, and resilience. He stands up for his principles and morals despite the challenges and temptations he faces. Joseph's journey can be seen as a parody of the traditional epic hero's quest, as he travels from one place to another, encountering various obstacles and humorous situations.
4. Epic-like Journey: Joseph Andrews embarks on a journey from London to his hometown in the countryside, which resembles the epic hero's quest. Along his journey, he encounters a series of adventures and misadventures, including being robbed, mistaken for a highwayman, and falling in love.
5. Involved Plot: In true epic fashion, Joseph Andrews features an intricate plot that includes twists and turns, suspenseful moments, and a satisfying conclusion. The narrative involves multiple characters and intertwining storylines, adding to the complexity of the plot.
6. Extended Similes: Fielding frequently uses extended similes, which are elaborate comparisons that go beyond a single sentence, to enhance the narrative and add humorous elements. These similes often draw on familiar everyday objects or situations to create a comic effect.
7. Divine Intervention: Although the novel does not feature literal gods or goddesses, Fielding sometimes incorporates elements of divine intervention or providential guidance. This further emphasizes the parallels with classical epic poetry, which often included the influence of deities in the lives of the characters.
Overall, Joseph Andrews combines the comic with the epic, blending humor and satire with elements of traditional heroic poetry. Fielding's clever use of language, vivid characterization, and engaging narrative make Joseph Andrews a notable example of a comic epic in prose.