The 18th Century Novel: Defining and Redefining Realism

Authors

Jim Kjelland '08, Illinois Wesleyan University

Abstract

In this paper, I will show that formal realism tells only a very small part of the story of the 18th century novel. While I do believe that realism, as defined by fidelity to individual experience, is the most definable characteristic of the 18th century novel, I will show that authors such as Henry Fielding and Charlotte Lennox realized the bias that formal realism imposes on a text, and that they attempted to create a more critically objective realistic view of humanity's diverse and subjective reality.

Recommended Citation

Kjelland '08, Jim (2008) "The 18th Century Novel: Defining and Redefining Realism," The Delta: Vol. 3: Iss. 1, Article 6.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.iwu.edu/delta/vol3/iss1/6