ABSTRACT
While Pamela's career in the literary world has been examined in some detail, the novel's effect on works in other artistic domains is less well-known. This chapter proposes to explore the influence of Richardson's novel on Italian comic opera, starting with Goldoni's famous adaptation of the work as La buona figliuola. In comparing Pamela and La buona figliuola is that Goldoni's adaptation of the story as a libretto puts it squarely within the contemporary conventions of opera buffa, both in its practical aspects and as regards its esthetic and moral status. This comparison of Pamela and La buona figliuola is that isolation, both physical and structural, is a crucial feature in the characterization of both heroines. Pamela's constancy of purpose and Nina's fidelity to a lover are united in the story of Griselda. She remains faithful to her nobly-born husband who puts her through endless public humiliation in order to prove her worth to his arrogant sister.
