n, Fielding simply compares Tom's actions to those of Nightingale and Will Barnes and demonstrates that Jones's behavior is not as loose in morals as is his peers (402). Carlton goes on to discuss the depiction of heroism in Tom, most of which does not apply in the scope of this paper. However, he does argue that one facet of Tom's heroism is a "Cavalier heroism, a dashing blend of sexual and martial prowess" (403) which seems to excuse Tom's promiscuous behavior and even adds to his attraction. While the women involved in these affairs are looked upon as evil and tempting, Tom is actually looked upon as a dashing cavalier hero. This development speaks volumes about the double standard apparent in Tom Jones.To further support these arguments is a third article by Gene S. Koppel entitled Sexual Education and Sexual Values in Tom Jones: Confusion at the Core? Most of this article talks about the sexual education and lack thereof in Tom, focusing on inconsistencies throughout the novel. Again, most of this is not within the scope of this paper, but Koppel does make one statement that completely supports the double standard argument. He says, "After all, it is quite obvious that Fielding accepted, at least partly, the traditional Western double standard,' which considered males to be sexually grosser' than females and allowed them (unofficially, at least) more sexual freedom than it permitted women" (7). Again, Fielding seems to maintain a double standard for what is acceptable behavior in men versus women. This is highlighted through endless examples and situations throughout the novel which would provide formidable arguments for anyone who sought to argue otherwise....
