Sexual Liberation Achieved in 'Moll Flanders'

In the realm of literature, few characters illustrate the complexities of female sexuality and independence as vividly as Moll Flanders, the protagonist of Daniel Defoe's novel. Set against the backdrop of the 17th century, a time when women's roles were heavily restricted and societal norms dictated a life of modesty and subservience, Moll's journey towards sexual liberation is both audacious and compelling. Through her experiences, Defoe explores the themes of survival, autonomy, and the power dynamics inherent in sexuality, ultimately positioning Moll as a symbol of female empowerment in a repressive society.

Defying Societal Norms

Moll Flanders is born into a world that offers her little hope for a prosperous future. Orphaned and raised in a penal environment, her early life is marked by neglect and abandonment. As she reflects on her childhood, she describes herself as, “a poor desolate Girl without Friends, without Cloaths, without Help or Helper in the World.” This sense of isolation drives her to seek connections and ultimately, to exploit her greatest asset—her beauty. Unlike the women of her time who were expected to adhere to stringent moral codes, Moll actively defies these norms, using her sexuality as a tool for survival.

The Power of Sexuality

As Moll matures, she becomes acutely aware of the influence her physical appearance holds over men. She acknowledges, “I very well knew it, and had as good an Opinion of myself as anybody else could have of me.” This self-awareness is crucial; it allows her to navigate a male-dominated society where her options are limited. Unlike Eve from John Milton's "Paradise Lost," who naively succumbs to temptation and ultimately leads to her downfall, Moll capitalizes on her allure. She recognizes that her beauty can open doors, providing her with the means to escape her dire circumstances.

Lessons from Experience

Moll's journey is not without its challenges. Each romantic encounter teaches her valuable lessons about love, power, and manipulation. Initially, she finds herself in relationships where her worth is measured solely by her physicality. For instance, her first lover gives her “a Handful of Gold in my Hand,” treating her as a commodity rather than a partner. This transactional nature of her early experiences lays the groundwork for her later promiscuity. As she becomes more jaded by her circumstances, Moll adopts a pragmatic approach to relationships, realizing that if she is to be used, she might as well benefit from it.

Contrasting Fates: Moll vs. Eve

The juxtaposition of Moll and Eve highlights the divergent paths women can take in relation to their sexuality. While Moll learns to navigate her circumstances with cunning and determination, Eve's experience is marked by naivety and consequence. In the Garden of Eden, Eve's beauty becomes a weapon of manipulation, leading her to disobey God and ultimately face exile. In contrast, Moll's decisions stem from a place of empowerment. She embraces her sexuality not as a means of destruction but as a path to autonomy. The following table summarizes the key differences between Moll and Eve:

Conclusion: Empowerment Through Sexuality

Moll Flanders' journey serves as a testament to the potential for sexual liberation in a repressive society. Through her cunning use of beauty and sexuality, she navigates the complexities of relationships, ultimately achieving a level of independence that was rare for women of her time. In contrast, Eve's experience illustrates the dangers of naivety and the catastrophic consequences that can arise from an unexamined acceptance of one's sexuality. Together, these narratives underscore the duality of female sexuality as both a source of empowerment and a potential catalyst for destruction. As we reflect on Moll's story, it becomes clear that the path to sexual liberation is fraught with challenges, but also ripe with opportunity for those willing to seize it.

References:

• Defoe, Daniel. *Moll Flanders*. Penguin Classics, 2007.
• Milton, John. *Paradise Lost*. Penguin Classics, 2007.
• Showalter, Elaine. *The Female Malady: Women, Madness and English Culture, 1830-1980*. Virago Press, 1987.
• Wood, Ellen. *The Feminist Encyclopedia of Spanish Literature*. Greenwood Press, 1997.