Composed in the wake of Defoe’s newfound literary success, Moll Flanders tells the story of an eighteenth century woman who takes fate into her own hands by developing her skills as a thief and con artist. Traveling back and forth between England and the United States (or from one con to another), Moll’s story rejects the antiquated notion of female dependence and demonstrates the full potential of a woman’s endurance and autonomy.

Includes bibliographical references (p. 106-112) and index.

Historical content -- The importance of the work -- Critical reception -- Story and structure -- Setting -- Moll, the criminal -- Moll, romantic narrator -- Minor characters -- Language and style -- Enduring questions.