Nobody really 'decides' in an absolute sense. Different cultures and time periods have their own preferences. In some Asian cultures, works like 'Dream of the Red Chamber' are highly regarded. In the Western world, 'Hamlet' is often seen as a great work. It's about how a work stands the test of time, both in terms of its literary merit and its ability to resonate with different audiences. Over time, a consensus may form, but it's always evolving.
Ultimately, it's a collective judgment over time. Scholars study the historical and cultural context of a work. For instance, 'Moby - Dick' was not initially well - received but is now considered a great work. The academic community can elevate a work's status. However, popularity among the general public, through word - of - mouth and re - readings, also contributes. A book like '1984' has both academic and popular acclaim, which helps in its consideration as a great work of fiction.
There's no single entity that decides. It's a combination of factors. Literary critics play a big role. They analyze elements like plot, character development, and writing style. For example, they might praise the complex characters in 'War and Peace' by Tolstoy. But ordinary readers also have a say. If a book has mass appeal over generations, like 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer', it can be considered great.
Ultimately, it's a collective decision. Critics play a large role. They analyze the literary elements such as plot, character development, and writing style. For example, a critic might praise 'Ulysses' by James Joyce for its innovative stream - of - consciousness technique. Readers also have a say. If a book is widely read and loved over time, like 'Little Women', it becomes a candidate for being considered a great work of fiction.
Ultimately, it's a combination of factors. Readers play a large part. If a large number of readers over time love a particular novel, it starts to gain the reputation of being a great one. Critics also have a say. Their reviews and analysis can bring attention to a novel's merits. For example, when 'One Hundred Years of Solitude' was first published, critics praised its unique narrative structure and exploration of family and time. Then there are literary scholars. They study the novel in the context of the writer's body of work and the literary history. However, it's not always a straightforward consensus. Some novels are considered great in one era but might be overlooked in another, and then rediscovered later.
Scholars study the historical and literary context of novels. They might consider how a novel was received when it was first published and how it has influenced other works over time. For instance, 'Ulysses' by James Joyce was initially controversial but over time has been recognized for its innovative use of language and stream - of - consciousness technique, which led to it being regarded as a great English novel by many in the academic world.
It's really hard to say just one writer. But if I had to pick, Isaac Asimov has a strong claim. His 'Foundation' series is so innovative and influential in the science - fiction world. It's full of big ideas about society, technology, and the future.
There is no single entity that determines it. Critics play a large role. They analyze various aspects such as the writing style, the themes explored, the development of characters, and the overall impact on society. For example, when a respected critic like Harold Bloom gives high praise to a work like 'Ulysses' by James Joyce, it adds to its reputation as a great work of fiction.
Literary critics play a significant role. They analyze novels based on various aspects such as writing style, themes, character development, and historical context. Their reviews and analyses can influence public perception. However, the general public also has a say. Popular novels that resonate with a large number of people can also be considered great. For instance, 'The Lord of the Rings' was very popular among the general public and also received critical acclaim, making it a strong contender for a great novel.
One could argue that 'Don Quixote' is the greatest work of fiction. It was written by Miguel de Cervantes and is often regarded as a pioneer in the modern novel. It has complex characters, a blend of humor and tragedy, and offers deep insights into human nature and the power of imagination.
The Pulitzer Prize for Fiction is decided by the Pulitzer Prize Board. This board is made up of journalists, editors, and academics. They carefully review the nominated works and select the winner based on the criteria of excellence in fiction writing.
It's a collective effort. Fans, critics, and scholars all play a part in determining the 'canon of science fiction'. Their opinions, reviews, and academic studies contribute to which works are considered part of the canon.
In my opinion, 'Dune' by Frank Herbert could be considered one of the greatest works of science fiction. It has a richly detailed universe, complex characters, and explores deep themes like politics, religion, and ecology in a science - fictional setting.