The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling

A muff is a woman’s fashion accessory, usually made of fabric or fur, shaped in a cylinder into which the hands may be inserted. While decorative, its main purpose was to warm the hands, and it was a popular part of a lady’s wardrobe in the 18th century. Sophia’s muff serves as an extension of herself in the novel and becomes a symbol of her love for Tom.

The muff serves the early purpose of making Sophia and Tom’s feelings known to one another, for Mrs. Honour tells Sophia that she saw Tom kissing the muff, and then tells Tom how Sophia thereafter cherishes the item. At the inn in Upton, Sophia leaves the muff in Tom’s empty bed as a sign that she is relinquishing her affections. The muff therefore becomes a stand-in for Sophia herself when Tom laments the missed opportunity and the Squire accuses him of hiding Sophia somewhere. That this fashion accessory should become a symbolic device also hints at how closely Sophia’s value is tied to her beautiful appearance.

The many inns and hired lodgings in the novel speak to the reality of accommodations in the 18th century, especially for travelers, visitors, and those who could not buy property of their own.