Lesson 3 – Traditional Fictions
Introduction
I. Definition of Traditional Fiction
II. Novel
1. Definition
A novel is a lengthy piece of writing that typically has a complicated plot, well-rounded characters, and a rich content structure. It is anchored in literary history and has a lot of significant interests.Â
The capacity to convey a story in depth and detail, allowing the author to explore the psychology of the characters and create an explicitly fictional universe, is one of fiction’s key advantages. The book offers readers an immersive and participatory experience with the narrative that fosters empathy for the characters and interest for learning more about challenging situations and morally hard topics.Â
The novel’s creation can be traced back to the growth of literature in the 17th century. The industrial revolution and the rise of the middle class in Europe are seen to have been particularly important for the creation of the modern novel. The novel “Robinson Crusoe” by Daniel Defoe, published in 1719, is regarded as one of the earliest recognized works of fiction and has influenced the format and standards of contemporary fiction. Since then, the book has developed into a significant literary genre, offering diversity and inspiration for the examination of individuals and the wider world via lengthy, thought-provoking tales.Â
It can be classified as literary or popular and explore various themes and genres such as romance, mystery, historical fiction, and science fiction.Â
Examples:Â Â
- 1. "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen
- 2. "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee
- 3. "1984" by George Orwell
- 4. "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald
- 5. "The Lord of the Rings" by J.R.R. Tolkien
- 6. "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone" by J.K. Rowling
III. Short Stories
1. Definition
A short story is a work of fiction that typically focuses on a single incident and a few characters at most and is designed to be read in one sitting. Short stories include about 1,000 to 7,499 words, and it’s not part of a series. When several stories are written as a series, it’s called a story sequence. Some types of short stories can be fiction, romance, and more.Â
Example:Â Â
- 1. "The Yellow Wallpaper" by Charlotte Perkins Gilman
- 2. "The Necklace" by Guy de Maupassant
- 3."The Monkey's Paw" by W.W. Jacobs
- 4. "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" by James Thurber
- 5. "The Cask of Amontillado" by Edgar Allan Poe