Often, the relationships between the characters in matrilocal marriage - based stories are more complex in terms of gender roles. The male character may have to adapt to a new environment where the female family members play important roles. Novels might explore the psychological and emotional adjustments of the husband in a matrilocal marriage, as well as how the wife and her family interact with him in this new family setup.
One such novel could be 'Snow Flower and the Secret Fan'. It delves into the complex relationships between women in a society where certain marriage customs, like matrilocal marriage, play a role in shaping their lives. The story shows how the bond between the two main characters is affected by family, tradition, and their own dreams within the context of their cultural environment.
In Chinese novels, marriage is often related to family honor and social status. For example, in traditional Chinese novels, a good marriage can bring glory to the family. And it's also closely tied to filial piety, as children's marriages are sometimes arranged by their parents to fulfill family duties.
Well, in the best marriage novels, complex characters are often key. For example, in 'Pride and Prejudice', Elizabeth is a strong - willed character with her own opinions on marriage, which makes the story engaging. Another characteristic is the exploration of different relationship dynamics. Like in 'Anna Karenina', we see the contrast between the passionate but doomed relationship of Anna and Vronsky, and the more stable but dull relationship of Kitty and Levin. Social context also plays a huge role. Novels like 'The Age of Innocence' show how society's expectations can shape marriages.
In Indian novels, one characteristic of arranged marriage is the strong influence of family. Families play a major role in choosing the partner. For example, in 'A Suitable Boy', the families are deeply involved in finding suitable matches for their children. Another characteristic is the cultural and religious aspects. Arranged marriages are often seen as a way to preserve cultural and religious traditions. In many novels, caste also plays a part. It can either be a major factor or a source of conflict, like in some stories where characters from different castes face difficulties due to their arranged marriage.
One important characteristic of the best forced marriage novels is the emotional journey. The characters go through a roller - coaster of emotions, from anger and resentment to acceptance and eventually love. In 'Unwanted Union', the heroine experiences all these emotions vividly. Also, these novels often have a plot that keeps you on your toes. There are twists and turns, like in 'The Forced Marriage Plot' where new revelations about the business deal behind the forced marriage keep coming up, making the story exciting and engaging.
One characteristic is the fast - paced relationship development. In these novels, the characters often get married or enter into a serious relationship very quickly, without much time for long - term courtship. For example, in some novels, the couple might meet and decide to get married within a few days or weeks.
Predestined marriage in Chinese novels usually has some supernatural elements. Take 'The Legend of White Snake' as an example. Bai Suzhen's love for Xu Xian is fated by the heavens. Their relationship is tested by various forces, including those from the divine world, which shows that the predestined marriage is not only a matter between two individuals but also related to a larger cosmic order.
Often, there is an initial agreement for practical reasons in 'contract marriage' Chinese novels. For example, one might need to solve a family problem or gain some business benefits. Then, as the story progresses, the relationship between the two main characters starts to change from a cold contractual one to a more emotional one.
Typically, they often start with a somewhat unexpected or practical reason for the marriage. For example, it could be for business or family reasons. Then, as the story unfolds, the characters get to know each other on a deeper level. They start to notice little things about each other that they didn't before, like the way the other person takes care of things or their sense of humor. This gradual discovery leads to the development of love. It's like a slow - burning fuse that eventually explodes into a passionate relationship.
These novels also tend to have elements of romance, drama, and sometimes comedy. The settings can vary widely, from modern - day cities to historical or even fantasy worlds. The development of the relationship between the two main characters is at the heart of the story, and the contract serves as the starting point and often a source of conflict throughout the novel.