William Sedley: Or, The Evil Day Deferred

A moralistic novel written in the late 18th century. The story revolves around the character of William Sedley, a sensitive boy who grapples with his emotions and the judgments he makes about happiness and social status. As he navigates his relationships with peers of different social standings, he learns about virtue, empathy, and the consequences of one's choices. At the start of the narrative, we find William in a state of emotional turmoil, struggling with the sadness of returning to school after a holiday. A conversation with a poor chimney-sweeper named Tony reveals the stark differences in their lives, prompting William to reflect on the nature of happiness. As the opening progresses, William is accompanied by his grandfather, Mr. Graves, who shares wisdom on experience, virtue, and the importance of character. This discussion sets the tone for the lessons William will learn throughout the story as he faces various moral dilemmas and the choices that come with them. The beginning establishes a rich thematic foundation centered on the values of empathy, responsibility, and personal growth.