Early novel

Definition

The early novel refers to the first wave of fictional prose writing that emerged in the late 17th and early 18th centuries, characterized by its focus on individual characters, personal experiences, and social commentary. This period marked a significant shift from earlier forms of literature, like epic poetry and drama, leading to a new storytelling medium that emphasized realism and the complexities of human emotion. The early novel played a crucial role in shaping the literary landscape and provided a platform for diverse voices, including women authors.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The early novel emerged in England around the late 17th century, with works like Aphra Behn's 'Oroonoko' serving as pioneering examples that introduced complex characters and social themes.
2. Aphra Behn is often regarded as one of the first professional female writers and her contributions helped to pave the way for future women authors in the early novel genre.
3. The rise of the early novel coincided with societal changes, including the growth of the middle class and shifts in reading habits, as more people had access to books.
4. Themes commonly explored in early novels include love, morality, class struggle, and personal identity, reflecting the evolving concerns of society at the time.
5. The popularity of serialized novels in periodicals also contributed to the development of the early novel form, making stories more accessible to a wider audience.

Review Questions

• How did the emergence of the early novel reflect societal changes during the late 17th and early 18th centuries?
  • The emergence of the early novel coincided with significant societal changes, such as the rise of the middle class and increased literacy rates. These changes allowed for a new audience who were eager for relatable stories that addressed their experiences. The focus on individual characters and personal narratives in early novels reflected a growing interest in self-exploration and social issues that were relevant to readers of that time.
• Discuss how Aphra Behn's work contributed to the establishment of a female voice within the early novel genre.
  • Aphra Behn's work played a pivotal role in establishing a female voice within the early novel genre by exploring themes related to women's experiences and societal roles. Her groundbreaking narrative techniques and character development showcased complex female protagonists, challenging traditional gender norms. Behn's success as a professional writer opened doors for future women authors, demonstrating that female perspectives were valuable and deserving of literary exploration.
• Evaluate the significance of realism in the context of early novels and how it shaped literary traditions moving forward.
  • Realism became increasingly significant in early novels as authors aimed to depict everyday life and ordinary characters authentically. This shift from idealized portrayals allowed readers to engage more deeply with characters' struggles and triumphs. As realism gained traction in early novels, it influenced later literary movements by emphasizing truthfulness in storytelling, paving the way for modernist literature where character psychology and social contexts became central themes.

Related terms

Picaresque: A genre of fiction that follows the adventures of a rogue or antihero who navigates through society, often highlighting social issues and moral ambiguities.

Epistolary Novel: A type of novel that is presented in the form of letters or correspondence, allowing for multiple perspectives and intimate insights into characters' thoughts and feelings.

Realism: A literary movement focused on representing everyday life and ordinary characters in a true-to-life manner, contrasting with romanticism and idealization in literature.