Realist novels are characterized by their commitment to representing reality objectively. This means showing the multifaceted nature of human experiences, often without a heavy reliance on fantasy or extreme plot devices.
Definitely 'Crime and Punishment' by Fyodor Dostoevsky. It delves deep into the psychological state of a man who commits a crime. It's a complex exploration of morality and human nature. Also, 'The Brothers Karamazov' by the same author is very well - known for its philosophical discussions within a family drama. And 'Ulysses' by James Joyce, although it has modernist elements, is also considered a realist work in its detailed description of a day in Dublin.
Well, first of all, the narrative structure is vital in defining novels. It determines how the story is told, whether it's linear or non - linear. Then, the development of characters is key. We need to see them change or face challenges throughout the novel. And of course, the themes that the novel explores, like love, friendship, or justice, are also important elements.
One of the most well - known is 'The Lord of the Rings' by J. R. R. Tolkien. It created a vast and detailed fantasy world with different races, languages, and a complex story of good versus evil. Another is 'The Chronicles of Narnia' by C. S. Lewis. It introduced readers to the magical land of Narnia through the eyes of children, with talking animals and epic battles. 'A Song of Ice and Fire' by George R. R. Martin is also defining. It has a complex web of characters and political intrigue in a medieval - like fantasy setting.
The characteristics of magical realist novels include a blend of the magical and the ordinary. For example, in Gabriel García Márquez's 'One Hundred Years of Solitude', extraordinary events like a character ascending to heaven while doing laundry coexist with normal family and village life. It often has a non - linear narrative, jumping between different time periods. Also, the use of rich symbolism is common, with elements in the story representing deeper concepts or cultural values.
Well, 'War and Peace' by Leo Tolstoy is a top - notch realist novel. It delves deep into the lives of several aristocratic families during the Napoleonic Wars, showing how war affects individuals on a personal level as well as society at large. Then there's 'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Bronte. It's a story of a young woman's journey through life, love, and self - discovery, while also painting a picture of the class - ridden society of the time. 'David Copperfield' by Charles Dickens is also among the best. It is a semi - autobiographical work that gives an in - depth look at the life of a young man growing up in Victorian England, with all its joys and sorrows.
The characteristics include a seamless mix of the real and the magical. Real - world settings are often the backdrop, like a typical Latin American village or town. However, within this normal setting, there are elements that defy logic, like people flying or inanimate objects having feelings. The narrative style is often dream - like. It doesn't follow a strict linear plot. Instead, it jumps between different time periods and events in a way that mimics how our dreams often lack a clear chronological order. And the characters in magic realist novels are complex. They exist in a world where the rules are constantly shifting between the real and the magical, so they have to adapt and their personalities are shaped by this duality.
One characteristic is the detailed portrayal of ordinary life. American realist novels often focus on the daily experiences, struggles, and relationships of common people. For example, in 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn', Mark Twain shows the real social situation along the Mississippi River through Huck's eyes, including issues like slavery and moral conflicts.
Typically, novels in this list often have a focus on the working class and the poor. They show their struggles, hopes, and the process of social change. For example, in 'How the Steel Was Tempered', the hero overcomes many hardships which are common among the working - class at that time.
Basically, a realist novel tries to show life as it really is. It focuses on real-world settings, characters with complex and relatable motives, and events that could happen in everyday life. It avoids fantasy or extreme exaggeration.
Well, they often depict real - life situations and social problems. For example, many focus on the class struggle, like how the poor were treated in the early 20th century. They also tend to have complex characters with real - life flaws.