Mmm. Feminism. Tasty.

Character wise I found that Eliza Haywood's Anti-Pamela was far more entertaining than Richardson's Pamela.  The story was much more fun to read because it did not seem to be ingrained in these unrealistic expectations for women to live up to.  I do not Pamela was Jesus so much, but definitely there were many characteristics that reminded me of the Virgin Mary.  Samuel paints this Virgin Mary character who forgives Mr. B for his transgressions at the end like she has been given some divine right because of her virtuous nature.  Just because you are a virgin does not mean that you are a much better woman than those who are not.

Beware Feminist Rant Ahead!

This idea that virginity makes a woman shows a very ridiculous double standard men have about women.  In the 18th century (and even now to some degree), a woman's worth is completely wrapped up in her virginity.  If she loses it before she is married, she is doomed forever because her value has been diminished to nothing.  I believe this is why Pamela irritates me so much.  She is a very real representation of the patriarchy of Richardson's time.  If she had lost her virginity, she would have ceased to be a Virgin Mary esque girl.  I enjoyed Syrena Tricksty because she is the exact opposite of Pamela.  She is reckless, opportunistic, and a total bitch.  Granted, I would never be friends with her, but she is the exact opposite of what the men of 18th century wanted from their women.  She reminded me of the Wife of Bath.  She is a very early character of feminist literature, though obviously not how we view feminism today.