Pamela explores the "servant problem" in 18th century England through the story of the maid Pamela. The novel is closely related to the life of domestic servants, reflecting the society's expectations for the virtues of servants at that time. The academic interpretation of novels often starts from the perspective of domestic servants, but there is insufficient exploration of their political functions and historical roles. The novel reveals the expectations of servant virtues at that time, as well as the class rules and gender issues behind these expectations.

1、 The 'Return of Virtue from the Other Shore' and the Romance of Puritanism

In depth exploration of the predicament and class discipline issues of maids in 18th century British society, revealing the double standards and moral requirements of society towards maids through analysis of Richardson's novel "Pamela". In the novel, Mr. B's pursuit of Pamela and Pamela's resistance to chastity constitute the core conflict of the story. In the end, the two reached a reconciliation in their marriage, but behind this outcome lies an excessive emphasis on the chastity of the maids and a neglect of their real-life difficulties.

2、 The class disciplinary function of virtue myth

The concept of virtues in Pamela is not limited to chastity, but also encompasses qualities such as simplicity, diligence, honesty, non greed, cleanliness, propriety, and piety. These virtues are tools for Richardson to morally discipline the household servant community through the role of Pamela. Pamela's image creation aims to be accepted and imitated by the servant class in order to maintain social class order. Her disdain for material wealth and preference for a simple life, as well as her devout religious beliefs, are important components of her moral image.

3、 Hierarchical Teana Diagram and God's Will

Deeply explored the relationship between the hierarchical system and God's will reflected in Richardson's Pamela. The novel reinforces the legitimacy of the master servant order through the voice of the narrator, viewing the hardships of the poor and the comfort of the rich as a reflection of natural laws and God's will. The poem "Wise and Wise Spirit" depicts a harmonious scene of the feudal hierarchy, in which the relationship between master and servant is glorified by the Christian concept of love, and the issue of power is put on hold. Pamela's image as an ideal servant and wife, with her obedient body and maintenance of order, embodies Puritan values and Protestant ethics. The depiction of money in the novel reflects the Puritans' new attitude towards wealth, viewing money as evidence of their voter identity. Pamela's "empty self" behavior and egocentrism are both products of Protestant ethics, demonstrating the influence of external ethical laws. As the other of the master, domestic servants are mirrors and tools for constructing themselves, and their morality and rewards vary from person to person. The changes in 18th century British society did not benefit the household servant group, as they were morally required to be free from retribution and their right to life was guaranteed, with only hope for heavenly rewards.