Types of Novels in English Literature

Types of Novels in English Literature

• Two main classes of fictional prose exist:
  • Tale or Romance: Primarily focuses on incidents and adventures.
  • Novel: Emphasizes character development and motivations.

Introduction to Novels

• English novels emerged in the 16th and 17th centuries, reaching a peak during the Age of Pope and Dr. Johnson.
• Key figures in the rise of the novel in the 18th century were Richardson, Smollett, Fielding, and Sterne—referred to as the "four wheels of the novel."
• Factors Contributing to the Rise of the Novel in the 18th Century:
  • The emergence of a robust middle class.

Rise of the Middle Class

• In the 18th century, England experienced a significant rise in the middle class due to trade and commerce.
• This wealthier middle class sought to participate in literary pursuits.
• The middle class's values and aspirations influenced the novels of the time.

Increased Literacy

• Increased literacy rates among the middle class fuelled the demand for reading materials.
• Novels catered to this expanded audience of readers due to their narrative and storytelling nature.

Economic Prosperity

• The economic growth experienced by the middle class allowed them access to leisure activities, including reading.
• Novels provided a form of entertainment and escape.

Social Mobility

• The more fluid social structure of the middle class compared to the rigid aristocracy offered opportunities for upward mobility.
• Novels presented characters from diverse backgrounds, allowing readers to envision themselves in different social roles.

Reflecting Middle-Class Values

• Novels reflected the concerns and values of the middle class.
• Topics explored in novels included marriage, family, social status, and individuality.

Accessibility and Serialization

• Novels were often published in serialized form, making them more affordable and accessible.
• This encouraged regular engagement with the stories.

Development of Printing Press

• Technological advancements, specifically the printing press, played a crucial role in the widespread distribution of books and novels.
• Increased access to reading material further fueled the rise of the novel.

Role of Women

• Women in the 18th century, both from upper and middle classes, had limited opportunities outside of domestic duties.
• Reading novels offered a form of leisure and escape.
• Novels were a source of education and enlightenment for women—revealing them to new ideas and experiences.

Rise of Realism

• 18th-century literature prominently featured realism, enthusiasm, passion, and imagination.
• Reason, intellect, and correctness were central characteristics.

Influence on Women's Perspectives

• Novels exposed women to diverse cultures, social classes, and perspectives.
• Novels facilitated independent thought and challenges to existing societal norms.

Impact on Women's Writing

• Increase in women's participation in writing and publishing novels followed their popularity.
• Women authors like Jane Austen and the Bronte sisters emerged during this time, significantly impacting literature.

Decline of Drama

• The decline of the popularity of dramas.
• The popularity of English novels rose, taking the place of drama.

Emergence of the English Novel

• The emergence of the novel as a realistic type of narrative in the 18th century was linked to the social and intellectual changes that had been taking place since the Renaissance.
• The novel is linked to social transformation, change in religious beliefs and the rise of the middle class.

The Novel as a Literary Form

• The novel began to embody societal values and reflect changing values.
• Authors like Defoe, Fielding, and Richardson contributed significantly to its development.

Pride and Prejudice

• Set in 19th century England.
• Focused on the Bennet family and the challenges their five daughters face as they navigate marriage and social expectations.
• Explored themes of social class and societal expectations surrounding women and marriage.
• Focuses on the relationship between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr Darcy.

Master of the Pure Novel

• Austen mastered the 'pure' novel.
• Her work focuses on the characters and their interactions.
• Limited characters, time, and plot.

A Typical Austen Novel

• Focuses on a small group of people.
• A middle-class, provincial setting.
• The subject of courtship and marriage.
• Uses humor and engages in social and moral commentary.

Background of the Novel

• "Pride and Prejudice” was written by Jane Austen and published in 1813.
• Set in 19th-century England.
• Explored societal expectations of women in marriage and their roles in society.

The Plot

• Bingley (a rich man) leased Netherfield.
• Bingley falls in love with Jane.
• Elizabeth Bennet and Darcy have a misunderstanding.
• The Bennet sisters are antagonistic towards the Bennets.
• Elizabeth starts to like Wickham.
• Darcy prevents Bingley from marrying Jane.
• Mr Collins asks Elizabeth to marry him; she refuses, and he asks Charlotte Lucas.
• Elizabeth visits Collins and meets Darcy accidentally.

Detailed Plot

• Introduces Mr and Mrs Bennett and their five daughters.
• Focuses on the Bennet's eagerness for their daughters to marry well.
• The presence of Mr Bingley, a wealthy man adds excitement and plot twists.
• The interaction between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr Darcy creates conflict, intrigue and deepens the story.

Character Descriptions

• Elizabeth Bennet: Witty and independent-minded protagonist of the novel.
• Darcy: Proud and wealthy hero, with a compassionate nature.
• Jane Bennet: Beautiful and kind-hearted, serves as a contrast to Elizabeth.
• Mr Bennet: The father of the Bennet sisters, often sarcastic.
• Mrs. Bennet: Obsessed with marrying off her daughters.
• Charlotte Lucas: Elizabeth's close friend, pragmatically marries Mr. Collins for security.
• Wickham: A charming but deceitful officer.
• Mr Collins: Pompous and obsequious cousin of the Bennet sisters.

Themes

• Marriage & Society: Social expectations and pressures faced by women.
• Class & Status: Limitations and privileges associated with different classes
• Morality & Virtue: Moral choices and personal integrity are key elements.
• Love & Relationships: Complexities of relationships and personal growth.
• Satire & Wit: Sarcasm used to expose societal follies.

The Victorian Period

• The significance of women writers and their characters in the Victorian period is examined.
• Limited educational opportunities and restricted public life faced by women.
• Women writers challenged norms and expectations, impacting the literary landscape and providing unique perspectives.
• Writers such as Charlotte Bronte, Elizabeth Gaskell, and George Eliot used their literary talent to create compelling works that broke barriers and contributed significantly to literature.

Themes of Hard Times

• Utilitarianism: Prioritizing practicality and efficiency over emotions.
• Industrialization: Examines the dehumanizing aspects of industrial society, depicting factory workers as cogs in a larger system.
• Social Inequality: Shows the stark divide between the wealthy and working classes.
• Social commentary on education, women's roles and families.
• The novel examines harsh realities of industrial life, including poverty, exploitation, and lack of agency for the working class.

Lord of the Flies

• William Golding's novel, published in 1954, is explored.
• Portrays the innate capacity for violence, malice, and savagery in humans.
• The story takes place on an island, where a group of British boys are stranded after a plane crash.
• They struggle to establish their own society and face their inner demons.
• Themes of conflict between civilization and primal instincts, and the loss of innocence are examined,
• Explores themes of power, fear, loss of innocence, and the clash between civilization and primal instincts.

Themes of Mrs. Dalloway

• Time and Memory: How the past influences the present.
• Mental Health: Depicts the struggle with PTSD, and societal indifference.
• Social Expectations: The rigid expectations placed on women in Victorian society.
• Life and Death: A contrast is made between Clarissa’s love of life and Septimus’ tragic death.

Explore the evolution of English novels from their inception in the 16th century to their peak in the 18th century. This quiz covers key genres, influential authors, and the socio-economic factors that contributed to the rise of the novel. Test your knowledge on the characteristics of tales versus novels and the impact of the middle class on literature.