7.4 Fielding's influence on the development of the novel
3 min read•august 1, 2024
revolutionized the novel form in the 18th century. He introduced the , complex plots, and deep character development, establishing the novel as a respected genre for and exploring human nature.
Fielding's innovations, like the and blending of comedy with epic elements, influenced later authors. His emphasis on and in characters set the stage for the found in 19th-century realist novels.
Fielding's Influence on the Novel
Pioneering the Novel Form
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- Established novel as respected literary genre moved beyond earlier prose fiction forms
- Introduced omniscient narrator in "" (1749) revolutionized narrative technique
- Allowed greater authorial commentary and character development
- Developed "" concept outlined in "" (1742) preface
- Provided theoretical framework for novel as distinct literary form
- Created complex plot structures and extensive character development set new standards
- Incorporated social and moral philosophy expanded novel's
- Established novel as vehicle for social commentary
- Emphasized realism and psychological depth in character portrayal
- Contributed to novel's evolution as serious literary form exploring human nature
Narrative Innovations
- Utilized "intrusive narrator" technique influenced subsequent novelists (, )
- Employed and
- Traced through later works ("", postmodern metafiction)
- Integrated and
- Established intertextuality tradition in novels
- Blended comedy and epic elements in prose fiction
- Created new genre influencing authors into 19th and 20th centuries
Fielding vs Contemporaries and Successors
Contrasting Approaches
- Differed from 's epistolary novels in narrative structure and moral approach
- Reflected contrasting views on literary purpose and technique
- Incorporated picaresque elements ("Joseph Andrews") comparable to Spanish picaresque novels
- Influenced later English adaptations of the form
- Used humor and satire distinguished from sentimental approach of contemporaries ( in "Tristram Shandy")
- Depicted prefigured work of later authors ()
- Portrayed class dynamics and social mores
Character and Moral Complexity
- Created morally complex characters contrasted with contemporaries' clear-cut morality
- Anticipated psychological depth of 19th-century realist novels
- Blended humor with moral complexity in characterization
- Influenced development of nuanced, realistic characters in subsequent novels
- Explored social and moral themes contributed to novel's role in social commentary
- Established novel as vehicle for philosophical inquiry
Fielding's Comic Epic Style
Satire and Social Critique
- Utilized and satire ("") set precedent for social critique in novel form
- Influenced writers like
- Expanded thematic scope of novels through social satire and moral philosophy
- Established novel as platform for exploring societal issues and human nature
Plot and Character Development
- Employed expansive plotting and diverse character types
- Influenced development of (William Makepeace Thackeray)
- Created complex plot structures set new standards for narrative complexity
- Developed extensive character portrayals contributed to novel's evolution
- Explored psychological depth and realism in character depiction
Fielding's Legacy in English Literature
Critical Recognition
- Considered foundational texts in English novel development ("Tom Jones")
- Influenced form and content of subsequent works
- Provided theoretical framework for novel genre in prefaces and essays
- Established novel as serious literary form worthy of critical attention
- Secured position as central figure in English literature canon
- Novels regularly studied and analyzed in academic contexts
Enduring Influence
- Expanded possibilities of prose fiction influenced narrative theory
- Paved way for great realist novels of 19th century
- Influenced development of literary realism and character psychology
- Continued to inspire contemporary authors through intertextuality and narrative techniques
Key Terms to Review (30)
Authorial intrusion: Authorial intrusion occurs when an author directly intervenes in the narrative, breaking the fourth wall to address the reader or provide commentary. This technique can shape a reader's understanding of characters, themes, or events, often adding layers of meaning or humor. It plays a significant role in the development of narrative style, especially in early novels where authors sought to engage their audience more personally.
Charles Dickens: Charles Dickens was a prominent English novelist and social critic of the 19th century, renowned for his vivid characters and depictions of Victorian society. His works often highlighted social injustices and the struggles of the poor, connecting him to the evolution of the English novel and the broader cultural context of his time.
Classical allusions: Classical allusions are references to figures, events, or works from ancient Greek and Roman literature and mythology that serve to enrich a text by drawing on the cultural and historical significance of these sources. These allusions can provide deeper layers of meaning, connect contemporary themes to timeless narratives, and evoke emotional responses based on shared knowledge of the classics. Writers often employ classical allusions to establish credibility, convey complex ideas succinctly, or create a sense of intertextuality within their narratives.
Comic epic in prose: A comic epic in prose is a literary form that blends the narrative style of epic poetry with humorous elements, typically focusing on the adventures of a hero in a light-hearted, satirical manner. This genre often parodies traditional epic conventions, using exaggerated characters and absurd situations to entertain while offering social commentary. The structure is usually characterized by a loose narrative form, witty dialogue, and episodic plotlines that emphasize the comic aspects of the story.
Epistolary novel: An epistolary novel is a literary work composed of letters, diary entries, or other forms of correspondence that create a narrative. This format allows for multiple perspectives and intimate insights into characters’ thoughts and feelings, making it an effective tool for character development and emotional depth.
George Eliot: George Eliot was the pen name of Mary Ann Evans, a prominent English novelist, poet, and journalist of the Victorian era known for her keen psychological insight and realistic portrayal of society. Her works often reflect the complexities of human relationships, moral dilemmas, and the influence of societal norms, making significant contributions to the development of the modern novel.
Henry Fielding: Henry Fielding was an English novelist and playwright, recognized as one of the founders of the modern novel. His works are significant for their contribution to the narrative form and their exploration of social issues, establishing a literary tradition that bridges early 18th-century storytelling with the evolving English novel.
Intrusive narrator: An intrusive narrator is a narrative voice that breaks the fourth wall, directly addressing the reader and offering commentary, insights, or opinions about the characters and events in the story. This style allows the narrator to shape the reader's perception and interpretation of the narrative while adding a layer of depth to character development and thematic exploration.
Irony: Irony is a literary device where the intended meaning of words or situations is opposite to their literal meaning. It often highlights contradictions, creates humor, or emphasizes the complexity of human experiences and societal norms, making it a crucial element in various forms of literature.
Jane Austen: Jane Austen was an English novelist known for her keen observations of social class and the role of women in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Her works reflect the evolution of the English novel, particularly through her focus on character development, irony, and social commentary, making her a pivotal figure in literature.
Jonathan Wild: Jonathan Wild was a notorious figure in early 18th-century England, often referred to as the 'Thief-Taker General.' He was known for leading a criminal gang while simultaneously presenting himself as a lawman who captured thieves, thus manipulating the legal system to his advantage. This duality showcases themes of corruption and moral ambiguity that resonate with the development of the novel during this period, particularly in the works of authors like Henry Fielding.
Joseph Andrews: Joseph Andrews is a novel written by Henry Fielding, first published in 1742, that serves as one of the earliest examples of the comic epic in prose. The story follows the adventures of the titular character, Joseph, as he navigates through various social challenges and moral dilemmas in 18th-century England. This work showcases Fielding's narrative style, humor, and his commentary on society, making it a crucial piece in the development of the English novel.
Laurence Sterne: 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.
Literary parody: Literary parody is a form of creative work that humorously imitates the style and content of another author, genre, or literary work to critique or entertain. This playful mimicry often highlights the characteristics of the original piece while also offering a fresh perspective or commentary on its themes, structure, or conventions. Parody serves as a means of social critique and allows authors to engage with existing literature in a way that can be both light-hearted and thought-provoking.
Moral complexity: Moral complexity refers to the nuanced and often conflicting nature of ethical decisions and human behavior, illustrating that actions can carry multiple meanings and consequences. This concept emphasizes that characters in literature may face dilemmas that reflect their multi-faceted personalities, social contexts, and the moral ambiguity of their choices. It plays a crucial role in storytelling, particularly in early novels where characters navigate their flawed motivations and ethical challenges.
Narrative complexity: Narrative complexity refers to the intricate and multifaceted ways a story is told, involving various layers of plot, character development, and thematic exploration. It allows for multiple perspectives and non-linear storytelling, enriching the reader's experience by challenging conventional narrative forms. This complexity contributes significantly to the depth and realism of characters and situations, fostering a more immersive engagement with the text.
Narrative digression: Narrative digression refers to a departure from the main storyline or plot of a narrative, often providing additional information, commentary, or backstory that may enrich the reader's understanding or add depth to characters and themes. This technique can enhance the storytelling by allowing authors to explore subplots or contextual details, offering a more complex and engaging reading experience.
Omniscient narrator: An omniscient narrator is a storytelling perspective where the narrator knows everything about the characters, events, and settings, providing insights into the thoughts and feelings of multiple characters. This type of narrator allows for a comprehensive understanding of the story and its themes, enabling readers to see the connections between characters and events from various angles. It's particularly significant in shaping narrative style and structure, often creating a more complex and layered storytelling experience.
Picaresque novel: A picaresque novel is a narrative that follows the adventures of a rogue or a picaro, usually of low social class, who lives by their wits in a corrupt society. This genre often presents a realistic and satirical portrayal of society, emphasizing themes like social criticism, adventure, and the exploration of various social classes. The picaresque structure typically features a series of loosely connected episodes rather than a strict plot, allowing for a broad commentary on human nature and societal issues.
Psychological depth: Psychological depth refers to the complexity and richness of a character's inner thoughts, emotions, and motivations, providing readers with insight into their mental states and personal struggles. This depth allows for a more profound connection between the characters and the audience, often revealing conflicting desires, fears, and traumas that shape their actions and decisions. It enhances narrative realism and invites readers to explore the intricacies of human experience.
Realism: Realism is a literary movement that emerged in the mid-19th century, focusing on the representation of everyday life and society with a truthful and objective approach. It seeks to portray ordinary people, their struggles, and the complexities of social dynamics without embellishment or idealization, aiming to depict reality as it truly is. This movement marks a shift from romanticism's focus on imagination and emotion to a more grounded representation of life.
Samuel Richardson: Samuel Richardson was an English writer and printer, best known for his contributions to the development of the novel, particularly through his epistolary style. He is considered a pivotal figure in the origins of the English novel, influencing narrative techniques and character development in the 18th century.
Satire: Satire is a literary technique that uses humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to criticize or mock social, political, or moral issues. It serves as a powerful tool for social commentary and is often employed to provoke thought and encourage reform by highlighting the flaws in individuals, institutions, or society as a whole.
Social Commentary: Social commentary is the act of using literature, art, or other forms of expression to critique societal issues, norms, and injustices. It serves as a reflection on the human experience, shedding light on the complexities of social behavior, moral dilemmas, and cultural practices. This commentary can be found in various forms, from satirical works that highlight hypocrisy to narratives that focus on social injustices, revealing the underlying issues of the time.
Social realism: Social realism is an artistic and literary movement that aims to depict everyday life and society with a focus on the struggles of the working class and the underprivileged. It highlights social issues, economic hardships, and political realities, seeking to bring attention to the conditions of ordinary people through authentic representation. This movement has influenced themes, narrative techniques, and character development in early novels, especially by providing a framework for understanding societal issues through relatable characters and realistic plots.
Thematic scope: Thematic scope refers to the range and depth of themes explored within a literary work, encompassing the variety of subjects and ideas that are presented and examined throughout the narrative. It plays a crucial role in shaping the reader's understanding and engagement with the text, influencing how characters, plots, and settings interact with these themes. A broader thematic scope allows for a more complex interplay of ideas, inviting readers to consider multiple perspectives and interpretations.
Tom Jones: Tom Jones is a novel by Henry Fielding published in 1749, which is recognized as one of the first significant English novels. The story follows the life of Tom Jones, an orphan raised by a wealthy landowner, as he navigates love, adventure, and social challenges in 18th-century England. This work is often linked to the development of the English novel, showcasing a blend of realism, humor, and moral complexity.
Tristram Shandy: Tristram Shandy is a novel by Laurence Sterne, first published in nine volumes between 1759 and 1767, known for its unconventional narrative style and digressive structure. The novel explores the life and thoughts of Tristram Shandy, who tells his story in a non-linear fashion, emphasizing the complexities of storytelling and the nature of time.
Victorian Novel: The Victorian novel refers to the body of fiction written during the reign of Queen Victoria, from 1837 to 1901. This genre is characterized by its exploration of social issues, moral questions, and complex characters, reflecting the values and struggles of Victorian society. The Victorian novel often employed realism and detailed descriptions to depict everyday life and personal experiences, setting the stage for future literary developments.
William Makepeace Thackeray: William Makepeace Thackeray was a prominent 19th-century English novelist known for his keen social observation and satirical style. His works, particularly 'Vanity Fair', provide a vivid portrayal of Victorian society and its complexities, showcasing the rise of the novel as a significant literary form during this period.