Laurence Sterne

Definition

Laurence Sterne was an Irish novelist and clergyman, best known for his innovative work 'Tristram Shandy', published in the 18th century. His writing style is characterized by its playful and digressive narrative, which broke traditional storytelling conventions and influenced the development of the modern novel.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sterne's 'Tristram Shandy' is considered one of the first novels to use an experimental approach to narrative structure, allowing for non-linear storytelling.
2. His use of humor and playfulness in 'Tristram Shandy' paved the way for later authors to explore more personal and subjective forms of writing.
3. Sterne's work challenged the conventional expectations of plot and character development, leading to greater freedom in narrative form for future writers.
4. He is often associated with the rise of the modern novel, as his innovative techniques encouraged writers to experiment with their narratives.
5. Sterne's influence extended beyond literature; his style resonated with various art forms and inspired movements such as Romanticism and Modernism.

Review Questions

• How did Laurence Sterne's narrative style in 'Tristram Shandy' challenge traditional storytelling conventions?
  • Laurence Sterne's narrative style in 'Tristram Shandy' defied traditional storytelling by employing a non-linear structure filled with digressions, humor, and playful asides. Rather than following a straightforward plot, he allowed characters and events to wander off on tangents, reflecting a more complex view of human experience. This experimentation invited readers to engage with the text in new ways, encouraging them to think about the nature of storytelling itself.
• In what ways did Sterne's work influence later literary movements or techniques?
  • Sterne's innovative approach to narrative had a significant impact on later literary movements, particularly Modernism and Postmodernism. His use of digression and stream-of-consciousness techniques paved the way for authors like Virginia Woolf and James Joyce, who further explored the complexities of thought and perception. By breaking from linear storytelling, Sterne opened up possibilities for writers to experiment with form and content, leading to a richer diversity in literature.
• Evaluate the significance of Laurence Sterne's contributions to the evolution of the novel in relation to Fielding's influence.
  • Laurence Sterne's contributions to the evolution of the novel are significant when evaluated alongside Henry Fielding's influence. While Fielding laid important groundwork for character development and social commentary within novels like 'Tom Jones', Sterne took those conventions and pushed them further into experimental territory. By introducing playful narratives that challenged readers' expectations, Sterne not only expanded upon Fielding's ideas but also helped set the stage for future literary innovations. This interplay between their works highlights how early novelists shaped each other's legacies, contributing to a broader understanding of narrative possibilities in literature.

Related terms

Tristram Shandy:

A novel by Laurence Sterne that employs a unique narrative structure filled with digressions, humor, and unconventional storytelling techniques.

Stream of Consciousness: A literary technique that attempts to capture the flow of thoughts and feelings running through a character's mind, often reflecting the influence of Sterne's narrative style.

Postmodernism: A literary movement that emerged in the mid-20th century, characterized by a self-aware approach to narrative form, which can be traced back to earlier innovators like Sterne.