Novel Genre Characteristics

Click on the flashcard to see the answer



What is the primary focus of a novel?

A novel primarily focuses on storytelling, often concerning human experiences and complex character development.

How does the length of a novel typically compare to other forms of literature such as short stories and novellas?

Novels are typically longer than short stories and novellas, usually consisting of 40,000 words or more.

What is the difference between a novel and a novella?

Novellas are shorter than novels but longer than short stories, typically ranging from 20,000 to 40,000 words.

Name a common structural element found in novels.

A common structural element in novels is chapters, each segmenting the story into sections to aid narrative progression.

What role does setting play in a novel?

The setting provides the time and place of the story, contributing to the mood and influencing characters' actions and choices.

What distinguishes a novel from an epic poem?

Novels are written in prose and focus on a wide range of themes and characters, whereas epic poems use verse and often focus on heroic deeds and events.

Name a famous early novel and its author.

Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes is a famous early novel.

What is a subgenre of novels that emphasizes suspense and intricate plotting?

The mystery or thriller genre emphasizes suspense and intricate plotting.

How do character development techniques differ in novels compared to plays?

Novels use narrative description and internal monologue for character development, whereas plays rely on dialogue and stage directions.

What is a fictional narrative typically told from a first-person point of view called?

A fictional narrative told from a first-person point of view is often called a 'first-person novel' or first-person narrative.

What is the purpose of a preface in a novel?

A preface provides context, background, or an explanation about how the novel came to be created.

Which era is known as the Golden Age of the novel?

The 19th century is often considered the Golden Age of the novel, with notable works from authors like Charles Dickens and Jane Austen.

What is the Bildungsroman genre in novels?

A Bildungsroman is a coming-of-age story, focusing on the psychological and moral growth of the protagonist.

What element in a novel explores the underlying message or main idea?

The theme explores the underlying message or main idea conveyed throughout the novel.

What is a distinguishing feature of an epistolary novel?

An epistolary novel is distinguished by its use of letters, diary entries, or other documents to tell the story.