Novel: Definitions and Characteristics

 

B. A. I Sem. II 

Unit No. 3 Novel: Definitions and Characteristics

I. Novel: Definitions

A novel is a long, fictional narrative written in prose, which describes characters, events, and settings in a structured and imaginative way. Different literary critics and writers have defined the novel in various ways.

Definitions of Novel by Critics and Writers

1. E.M. Forster – “A novel is a fiction in prose of a certain extent.”
2. Walter Allen – “The novel is a narrative of considerable length in which characters and actions represent real life in a plot that is of interest.”
3. M.H. Abrams – “A novel is an extended fictional prose narrative, usually lengthy and complex, dealing imaginatively with human experience through a connected sequence of events involving a group of characters.”
4. Dr. Johnson – “A novel is a small tale, generally of fictitious nature.”
5. Richardson – “A novel is a large, complex, and continuous story that represents human experiences realistically.”
6. Henry James – “A novel is a personal, direct impression of life.”

From these definitions, it is clear that a novel is:

• A long work of prose fiction
• A structured narrative
• Based on characters, events, and settings
• A reflection of real-life experiences

 II. Characteristics of Novel

A novel is an extended piece of narrative fiction that explores human experiences through characters, conflicts, and a structured plot. It is one of the most significant forms of literature, allowing for in-depth storytelling and the development of complex themes.

 

Below are the detailed characteristics of a novel

 

1. Lengthy and Detailed Narrative

A novel is significantly longer than a short story or a novella. Following are the reasons:

• The length allows for a more comprehensive exploration of characters, settings, and themes.
• It enables the writer to develop complex subplots that enrich the main storyline.
• Readers become more emotionally invested in the novel’s characters and their journey.
• It provides room for detailed descriptions and in-depth analysis of human experiences.

Examples:

• War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy (over 500,000 words): This novel explores historical events, multiple characters, and deep philosophical themes.
• The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien (over 450,000 words): It creates a detailed fantasy world, complete with history, languages, and mythology.

 

2. Fictional Storytelling

Although a novel can be inspired by real events, it is primarily a work of fiction. The characters, dialogues, and situations are often imaginary but are crafted to feel realistic and relatable.

Features of Fictional Storytelling in Novels:

• Imaginative plotlines: Authors create original and engaging stories.
• Invented characters: While characters might be inspired by real people, they are shaped to fit the novel’s narrative.
• Blend of reality and imagination: Many novels incorporate real-life themes and issues, making them feel believable.

Examples:

• The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald: A fictional story that reflects the extravagant lifestyle and moral decay of the 1920s.
• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee: Inspired by real social issues but told through fictional characters and events.

 

3. Well-Developed Characters

Novels contain multiple characters, each with distinct personalities, motivations, and emotional depth.

 

Characters in a Novel:

1. Protagonist (Main Character) – The hero or central character around whom the story revolves.
• Example: Elizabeth Bennet (Pride and Prejudice).
2. Antagonist – The character or force opposing the protagonist.
• Example: Voldemort (Harry Potter).
3. Supporting Characters – Friends, mentors, family members, or other figures who influence the protagonist’s journey.
• Example: Samwise Gamgee (The Lord of the Rings).

 

Types of Characters in a Novel:

1. Flat Characters

Flat characters are simple, one-dimensional figures in a novel. They do not undergo significant changes or character development throughout the story.

Characteristics of Flat Characters:

·         Simple and Predictable: They usually have one or two defining traits.

·         Lack of Depth: They do not have complex emotions or inner conflicts.

·         Remain the Same: They do not grow or evolve as the story progresses.

·         Stereotypical or Symbolic: They often represent a particular idea, role, or type.

Example of Flat Character:

Benvolio (Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare) – Always the peacekeeper, with no complexity.

2. Round Characters

Round characters are complex, multi-dimensional, and undergo development or change throughout the novel.

Characteristics of Round Character:

·         Deep and Realistic: They have complex personalities, emotions, and motives.

·         Grow and Evolve: They experience character development as they react to challenges.

·         Contradictions and Conflicts: Like real people, they can have flaws and strengths.

·         Unpredictable: Their actions are not always obvious and may surprise the reader.

Example of Round Character:

Hamlet (Hamlet by William Shakespeare) – A deeply conflicted character, torn between duty and morality.

4. Structured Plot

A novel follows a well-organized structure that keeps the reader engaged from beginning to end.

Elements of a Novel’s Plot:

1. Exposition – Introduces the characters, setting, and background.
2. Rising Action – Conflict develops, leading to suspense.
3. Climax – The most intense part of the story.
4. Falling Action – The story begins to resolve.
5. Denouement – The conclusion, tying up loose ends.

Example:

• Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë follows Jane’s journey from an orphan to a strong, independent woman, with a clear beginning, middle, and end.

 

5. Setting (Time and Place of the Story)

A novel can be set in real or imaginary locations, ranging from historical periods to futuristic societies.

Importance of Setting:

• It helps create the mood and atmosphere.
• It shapes the characters’ experiences and influences their decisions.
• It reflects social, political, and cultural aspects of the time.

Examples:

• A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens – Set in London and Paris during the French Revolution.
• 1984 by George Orwell – Set in a dystopian future society under totalitarian rule.

 

6. Theme (Central Idea or Message)

A novel usually explores one or more central themes that add depth to the story.

Common Themes in Novels:

1. Love and Relationships – Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë.
2. Social Inequality – The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck.
3. War and Conflict – All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque.
4. Self-Discovery – The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger.

 

7. Realistic Representation of Life

• Novels often present realistic situations, emotions, and social issues.
• They reflect human nature, making them relatable and thought-provoking.

Example:

• Pride and Prejudice portrays social class and marriage issues in the 19th century.

 

8. Style and Language

The writing style of a novel depends on the author’s approach and the book’s genre.

Types of Writing Styles in Novels:

• Descriptive and Poetic: Moby-Dick by Herman Melville.
• Simple and Direct: Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck.

 

9. Point of View (Narration)

Novels can be written from different narrative perspectives.

Types of Narration:

1. First-Person – The protagonist narrates the story (The Catcher in the Rye).
2. Third-Person Limited – The narrator follows one character’s thoughts (Harry Potter).
3. Omniscient – The narrator knows everything (War and Peace).

 

10. Exploration of Human Nature and Society

• Novels provide insights into human behavior, relationships, and emotions.
• They can be a social commentary, reflecting issues like poverty, discrimination, and war.

Examples:

• Animal Farm – Critique of political corruption.
• The Lord of the Flies – Exploration of human instincts and morality.

 

11. Flexibility in Structure and Genre

Novels exist in various genres, including:

1. Historical Novel – War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy.
2. Psychological Novel – Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky.
3. Mystery Novel – Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle.
4. Science Fiction – Dune by Frank Herbert.
5. Romantic Novel – Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë.

 

Conclusion

A novel is a powerful literary form that allows for deep storytelling, character exploration, and the expression of universal themes. Its length, structure, and complexity make it one of the most influential types of literature, providing entertainment, insight, and emotional connection to readers worldwide.