171. DSM 101/DSC 501- Beginnings of the English Novel (3)

1. Give a brief note on the beginnings of English Novel.

A:- The beginnings of the English novel can be traced back to the 18th century. The novel as a literary form evolved from earlier prose narratives and romances. One of the pioneering works often considered as an early English novel is Daniel Defoe's "Robinson Crusoe" (1719), which introduced a realistic and detailed narrative structure.

Following Defoe, Samuel Richardson's "Pamela" (1740) is another significant work that contributed to the development of the novel. Richardson's novel focused on the psychological and emotional aspects of characters, marking a shift towards more character-driven narratives.

Henry Fielding, a contemporary of Richardson, wrote "Tom Jones" (1749), known for its humor and intricate plot, contributing to the development of the novel as a form of entertainment and social commentary.

These early novels laid the foundation for the novel as a distinct literary genre, paving the way for later novelists to explore various themes, styles, and narrative techniques.

2. What are the features of early English novels?

A:- Early English novels shared several distinctive features:

1. Realism:Novelists like Daniel Defoe and Samuel Richardson emphasized a realistic portrayal of everyday life, providing detailed descriptions and focusing on the ordinary experiences of their characters.

2. Character Development: There was a growing emphasis on the development of characters and their internal lives. Samuel Richardson, in particular, delved into the psychology and emotions of his characters in works like "Pamela."

3. Epistolary Form: Some early novels, such as Richardson's "Pamela" and "Clarissa," were written in epistolary form, consisting of letters exchanged between characters. This form allowed for an intimate exploration of characters' thoughts and feelings.

4. Social Commentary:Many early novels served as a medium for social commentary, addressing issues such as class, morality, and societal norms. Henry Fielding's "Tom Jones," for instance, satirized the social and moral values of its time.

5. Moral Lessons:Novels often carried moral lessons and didactic elements. Authors aimed to entertain while imparting ethical principles. Richardson's "Pamela," for example, conveyed moral messages about virtue and modesty.

6. Adventure and Exploration: Works like Daniel Defoe's "Robinson Crusoe" incorporated elements of adventure and exploration, reflecting the curiosity and fascination with the wider world during the 18th century.

7. Satire and Humor: Humor and satire were integral to novels like Henry Fielding's "Tom Jones." This comedic element added entertainment value while providing a critical view of societal norms.

These features collectively contributed to shaping the early English novel and set the stage for the diverse and dynamic development of the genre in the centuries that followed.

3. 4 novelists of 18th century? (Marks-1/ 2023 March, DSM)

A:- Daniel Defoe, Jane Austen, Henry Fielding & Jonathan Swift.