Frances Burney

Definition

Frances Burney was an influential English novelist, playwright, and diarist, known for her role in the development of the novel as a form and as a pioneer among female authors in the late 18th century. Her works, particularly 'Evelina' and 'Cecilia', helped to establish a space for women's voices in literature, addressing themes of gender, social class, and individual agency during a time when women's writing was often marginalized.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Frances Burney's novel 'Evelina' is often credited as one of the first novels to provide an authentic portrayal of a woman's experiences in society, influencing later female authors.
2. Burney was appointed as the Keeper of the Records at the British Library, making her one of the first women to hold such a significant literary position.
3. She maintained a close friendship with notable figures such as Samuel Johnson and was recognized by contemporaries for her wit and intelligence.
4. Burney's diaries offer valuable insights into the life and challenges of women writers in her era, detailing her struggles for recognition and respect in a male-dominated literary world.
5. Her writing often highlighted the social restrictions placed on women and advocated for their rights to independence and self-expression.

Review Questions

• How did Frances Burney's works contribute to the rise of the woman novelist in her time?
  • Frances Burney's works were pivotal in showcasing women's perspectives and experiences in literature during the late 18th century. Her debut novel 'Evelina' presented a relatable female protagonist navigating societal expectations, thus setting a precedent for future female authors. By addressing themes like gender roles and personal agency, Burney opened doors for women to write about their lives and assert their voices within the literary canon.
• Discuss the significance of Frances Burney's use of the epistolary form in her writing.
  • Frances Burney's use of the epistolary form in novels like 'Evelina' allowed for an intimate exploration of her characters' thoughts and emotions. This format emphasized personal experiences and provided readers with direct access to the protagonist’s internal struggles. By crafting her narrative through letters and diary entries, Burney not only engaged readers but also highlighted the social constraints faced by women, enhancing the authenticity of her characters' journeys.
• Evaluate how Frances Burney's literary contributions influenced subsequent generations of female authors.
  • Frances Burney’s literary contributions laid essential groundwork for subsequent generations of female authors by legitimizing women's experiences in fiction. Her emphasis on character development and social commentary inspired writers like Jane Austen and Charlotte Brontë. Furthermore, her diaries revealed the realities women faced in pursuing literary careers, encouraging future authors to navigate similar challenges with resilience and creativity. Burney's legacy is evident in how modern literature continues to celebrate diverse female narratives.

Related terms

Evelina: Frances Burney's debut novel, published in 1778, which follows the life of a young woman navigating society and seeking acceptance, reflecting the challenges faced by women in her time.

Epistolary Novel: A literary form that tells a story through letters, diary entries, or other documents; Burney's 'Evelina' is an example of this style that emphasizes personal experience and social commentary.

The Female Quixote: A novel by Charlotte Lennox published in 1752, which features a female protagonist influenced by romantic literature; it is part of the broader context of women's writing that Burney contributed to.