The novel of manners emerged in the 18th century, focusing on social etiquette and moral dilemmas. Pioneers like and set the stage, exploring tensions between individual desires and societal expectations in their works.
refined the genre, introducing complex characters and nuanced social commentary. Her influence shaped the novel of manners, establishing archetypes and narrative techniques that continue to resonate with readers and inspire modern adaptations.
Origins of the Novel of Manners
Early Foundations and Pioneers
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Novel of manners emerged in the 18th century as a distinct literary genre
Samuel Richardson's "Pamela" (1740) established early conventions of the genre
Focused on social etiquette and moral dilemmas
Explored tensions between individual desires and societal expectations
Frances Burney's "Evelina" (1778) further developed the genre's characteristics
Centered on a young woman's coming-of-age in society
Emphasized the importance of and proper behavior
Evolution and Expansion
Jane Austen refined and popularized the genre in the early 19th century
"" and "" set new standards for the novel of manners
Introduced more complex characters and nuanced social commentary
saw further development of the genre
expanded the scope to include broader social issues
incorporated satirical elements to critique society
Late 19th and early 20th centuries brought the novel of manners to America
explored the clash between Old and New World social customs
contrasted American and European societal norms in his works
Contemporary Iterations
Modern authors continue to adapt and reinvent the novel of manners
's "The Remains of the Day" examines class and duty in post-war England
's "On Beauty" updates the genre to explore multiculturalism and academia
Contemporary works often incorporate:
More diverse perspectives and experiences
Exploration of modern social issues (gender roles, cultural identity)
Experimental narrative techniques while maintaining focus on social dynamics
Defining Features of the Novel of Manners
Social Focus and Commentary
Primarily examines social customs, etiquette, and conventions of a particular class or era
Serves as a lens for broader social critique and analysis
Explores the nuances of social interactions and their consequences
Setting confined to a specific social milieu integral to the narrative
Often features English countryside estates (Austen's works)
Urban high society settings (Wharton's "The Age of Innocence")
Employs subtle and satire to comment on social hypocrisies
Reveals discrepancies between societal ideals and actual behavior
Critiques the foibles of human nature within societal contexts
Character Development and Relationships
Characters' growth tied to their navigation of societal norms and expectations
Protagonists often struggle between personal desires and social obligations
Secondary characters serve to illustrate various social roles and attitudes
Intricate plots revolving around courtship, , and social mobility
Explores tensions between romantic love and practical considerations
Examines the impact of on personal relationships
Dialogue crucial for revealing characters' social standing and values
Speech patterns indicate education and class background
Topics of conversation reflect characters' priorities and worldviews
Narrative Techniques and Themes
Employs free indirect discourse for deeper character exploration
Allows insight into characters' thoughts while maintaining narrative distance
Facilitates subtle social commentary through character perspectives
Moral dilemmas and ethical choices central to the narrative
Characters face conflicts between personal inclinations and social duties
Decisions often have significant consequences for characters' social standing
Focus on the domestic sphere and everyday social interactions
Examines the impact of seemingly small social gestures and decisions
Reveals larger societal structures through intimate portrayals of daily life
Austen's Influence on the Novel of Manners
Literary Innovations and Style
Established benchmark for the genre with works like "Pride and Prejudice" and "Emma"
Created template for character dynamics and plot structures
Set standard for balancing romance with social commentary
Pioneered use of free indirect discourse in the genre
Allowed for deeper character exploration and nuanced social critique
Influenced narrative techniques in subsequent novels of manners
Developed sharp wit and ironic tone for social criticism
Used humor to expose societal flaws and hypocrisies
Influenced development of social satire within the genre
Character and Setting Archetypes
Focused on domestic sphere and limited cast of characters
Created intimate portraits of social circles and family dynamics
Established importance of everyday interactions in revealing social structures
Portrayed strong, complex female protagonists
Characters like Elizabeth Bennet set precedent for independent heroines
Explored women's limited options within societal constraints
Established archetypal settings for the genre
English country houses and small villages as microcosms of society
Balls and social gatherings as key sites for character interaction and plot development
Enduring Impact and Adaptations
Contributed to longevity of the novel of manners through enduring popularity
Inspired numerous direct adaptations of her works (film, television, literature)
Influenced modern reinterpretations of the genre
Established themes that continue to resonate with readers
Universal experiences of love, social pressure, and personal growth
Exploration of timeless social issues (class divisions, gender roles)
Inspired contemporary authors to engage with and update genre conventions
Modern works often reference or reimagine Austen's plots and characters
Austen's narrative techniques continue to influence contemporary writing styles
Enduring Appeal of the Novel of Manners
Universal Themes and Character Development
Focuses on timeless themes resonating across cultures and eras
Love and romantic relationships (courtship rituals, marriage expectations)
Social ambition and class mobility (characters striving to improve their status)
Personal growth and self-discovery (protagonists learning to navigate society)
Emphasizes complex character development and psychological insight
Explores characters' internal conflicts and moral dilemmas
Examines how social pressures shape individual identity and choices
Social Commentary and Historical Insight
Provides valuable insights into historical and contemporary social structures
Offers window into past social norms and customs
Allows readers to compare historical social dynamics with present-day issues
Addresses modern social issues while maintaining genre's core elements
Explores class disparities in contemporary settings
Examines cultural assimilation and changing gender roles
Employs satirical approach for nuanced commentary on society
Critiques social hypocrisies and injustices through humor and irony
Allows for subtle exploration of complex issues
Adaptability and Modern Relevance
Genre demonstrates flexibility in adapting to contemporary contexts
Modern authors update classic plots for current settings (Curtis Sittenfeld's "Eligible")
New works incorporate diverse perspectives and experiences
Aligns with contemporary literary trends and reader interests
Focus on character psychology appeals to modern readers
Exploration of social dynamics resonates in era of social media and changing norms
Popularity of adaptations introduces genre to new audiences
Film and television versions attract viewers to original literary works
Modern adaptations inspire renewed interest in classic novels of manners
Key Terms to Review (21)
Anthony Trollope: Anthony Trollope was a prominent 19th-century English novelist known for his detailed characterizations and keen observations of social manners, particularly within the context of Victorian society. His works often reflect the complexities of human relationships and the intricacies of social class, making him a significant figure in the development of the novel of manners.
Character interactions: Character interactions refer to the ways in which characters communicate, relate, and influence each other within a narrative. These interactions are crucial for developing relationships, conflicts, and themes, reflecting societal norms and individual motivations. They play a pivotal role in showcasing the complexities of human behavior, revealing how characters navigate their social environments.
Edith Wharton: Edith Wharton was a prominent American novelist and short story writer, known for her keen observations of the social dynamics and manners of the upper class in the early 20th century. Her works often highlight the constraints and expectations placed on individuals by society, making her a pivotal figure in the development of the novel of manners, which focuses on the behaviors, values, and social structures of a particular group.
Emma: Emma is a novel by Jane Austen published in 1815, focusing on the life and romantic misadventures of its eponymous protagonist, Emma Woodhouse. The story explores themes of social class, personal growth, and the intricacies of matchmaking, while offering a keen commentary on the society of the time. As one of Austen's major works, it exemplifies her skill in creating complex characters and engaging narratives that highlight the nuances of human relationships and social expectations.
Frances Burney: Frances Burney was an English novelist, diarist, and playwright of the 18th century, best known for her works that contributed to the development of the novel of manners. Her writing is characterized by sharp social observations and a focus on the complexities of social behavior, particularly among women in polite society. Burney's novels, like 'Evelina' and 'Camilla,' provide insight into the intricacies of courtship and social interaction, highlighting how these dynamics shaped personal identities and societal norms.
Henry James: Henry James was a prominent American-British author known for his intricate prose style and psychological depth in his novels and stories. He explored themes of consciousness, identity, and the moral complexities of life, making significant contributions to the development of both the novel of manners and the epistolary novel form.
Irony: Irony is a literary device where the intended meaning of words or events is opposite to their literal meaning. It often highlights discrepancies between expectations and reality, adding depth to storytelling. This can involve characters saying one thing but meaning another, situations unfolding in unexpected ways, or an outcome that contrasts starkly with what was anticipated.
Jane Austen: Jane Austen was an influential English novelist known for her keen observations of early 19th-century British society, particularly in her portrayal of the lives and romantic entanglements of women. Her works often explore themes of class, marriage, and morality, making her a significant figure in the development of the novel of manners and offering a contrast to earlier forms such as the epistolary novel.
Kazuo Ishiguro: Kazuo Ishiguro is a British author of Japanese descent, known for his distinctive narrative style that often combines elements of memory, time, and identity. His works frequently delve into the complexities of human relationships and the nuances of social manners, making him a key figure in contemporary literature and the evolution of the novel of manners.
Marriage: Marriage is a social and legal contract between individuals that establishes a partnership and often entails mutual obligations, support, and companionship. In literature, particularly in the context of the English novel, marriage serves as a critical theme reflecting societal norms, individual desires, and the complexities of relationships, often highlighting issues of class, gender roles, and social expectations.
Modernism: Modernism is a broad cultural, artistic, and literary movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by a deliberate break from traditional forms and conventions. It reflects the complexities of modern life, embracing new ideas about consciousness, identity, and society while often focusing on the inner experiences of individuals. The movement is marked by experimentation in narrative techniques and a focus on subjective experience, which can be seen in various forms of literature.
Pride and Prejudice: Pride and Prejudice is a novel by Jane Austen published in 1813 that explores themes of love, social class, and individual agency through the lives of its main characters, particularly Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. The novel critically examines the influence of societal expectations and personal biases, showcasing how pride and prejudice can distort relationships and hinder understanding between individuals.
Realism: Realism is a literary movement that aims to represent everyday life and society as it is, focusing on the mundane, the ordinary, and the common experiences of people. This approach often critiques social issues and highlights the struggles of individuals in their environments, reflecting the complexities of human existence without idealization.
Samuel Richardson: Samuel Richardson was an English writer and printer, widely regarded as one of the first novelists in the English language. He is best known for his innovative use of the epistolary form, which presents the story through letters written by the characters, allowing for deep psychological insights and personal emotions. His works contributed significantly to the development of the novel as a literary form and influenced the emerging genre of the novel of manners, which focuses on the behavior, customs, and values of a particular social class.
Social Class: Social class refers to the hierarchical distinctions between individuals or groups in society based on factors such as wealth, occupation, education, and social status. This concept is crucial in understanding the dynamics of social interactions, power relations, and cultural norms within various literary works.
Social customs: Social customs refer to the established and accepted behaviors, practices, and norms that are characteristic of a particular society or group. These customs shape how individuals interact with one another and influence various aspects of daily life, such as communication, etiquette, and rituals. Understanding social customs is essential for grasping the cultural context of a community, particularly in the development of narratives that focus on societal dynamics.
The dandy: A dandy is a man who places particular importance on his physical appearance, refined language, and overall lifestyle, often embodying sophistication and style. This character type emerged prominently in the 19th century, symbolizing a blend of aesthetics and social commentary, particularly within the context of societal norms and manners.
The matriarch: A matriarch is a woman who holds a position of authority or leadership within a family, community, or social group, often serving as the primary decision-maker and moral guide. In literature, particularly in the novel of manners, the matriarch symbolizes the values, traditions, and social norms of her society, influencing the behavior and relationships of those around her.
Victorian Era: The Victorian Era refers to the period of Queen Victoria's reign from 1837 to 1901, characterized by significant industrial, cultural, political, scientific, and military changes in the United Kingdom. It was marked by a strict moral code, the expansion of the British Empire, and the rise of new literary forms and genres that explored complex social issues.
William Makepeace Thackeray: William Makepeace Thackeray was a prominent English novelist and satirist of the 19th century, best known for his work 'Vanity Fair.' He played a critical role in the development of the novel of manners, which focuses on the social customs, values, and behaviors of a particular class or society. Thackeray's keen observations and wit highlighted the intricacies of social life and provided a mirror to the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by individuals within their societal context.
Zadie Smith: Zadie Smith is a contemporary British author known for her exploration of identity, race, and cultural hybridity within the context of multicultural Britain. Her works often reflect the complexities of modern society, addressing issues related to the postcolonial experience and the evolving nature of British literature.