The Role of Motherhood in Moll Flanders In Moll Flanders by Daniel Defoe, there is no true development of maternal feelings over the course of the novel. At times throughout the story, what appear to be maternal feelings are really overshadowed by either guilt or a hidden motive. It is quite evident that Defoe is out to show that maternal feelings in Moll's orbit were not very strong, as can be seen in the many "…showed first 75 words of 2712 total…

…showed last 75 words of 2712 total…and given them to her. The governess also conveniently had the money at the time. Would she have struggled to save Moll if she did not have these funds? Did she in some way feel guilty? It seems that virtue always falls to insecurity or lack of wealth. Defoe seriously undermines the Christian fervor of his heroine, and sheds light on some of the possible immoral decisions that can take place in times of hopelessness.