One characteristic is the complex and often convoluted plots. These novels liked to keep readers guessing with multiple twists and turns. For example, in 'The Woman in White', the identity of the woman in white herself is a mystery that is slowly unraveled through a web of lies and deceptions.
The 19th - century mystery novels often featured a slow - burn build - up. They didn't rush into the mystery but rather took time to introduce the setting, the characters, and the initial situation. This made the later revelations more impactful. The language used was also quite elaborate and descriptive. Writers would use long, detailed sentences to paint a vivid picture of the scenes and the emotions of the characters. And they often incorporated elements of the supernatural or the unknown, whether it was a strange apparition or a seemingly inexplicable event, which added to the overall mystery.
One characteristic is the use of complex and often convoluted plots. Writers like to keep readers guessing until the very end. For example, in 'And Then There Were None' by Agatha Christie, the plot twists and turns constantly.
One characteristic is the exploration of the American frontier. Novels like 'The Leatherstocking Tales' by James Fenimore Cooper showed the wilderness and the struggles of settlers. Another is the examination of social issues such as slavery. Harriet Beecher Stowe's 'Uncle Tom's Cabin' was very influential in this regard. Also, many 19th - century American novels had a strong sense of moral purpose.
One characteristic is the influence of Puritan values. Many 18th - century American novels often reflected the Puritan work ethic, moral codes, and ideas of sin and redemption. For example, in some works, characters' actions were judged based on Puritan beliefs. Another aspect was the exploration of the new American identity. As the colonies were growing and developing, novels started to depict the unique American experience, different from that of Europe. Also, the language in these novels was gradually forming its own American flavor, distinct from the more formal English of the mother country.
Well, one characteristic is the influence of Puritan values. These novels often had a moral or religious undertone. For example, 'The Bay Psalm Book' was an important work that reflected religious beliefs of the time. Another aspect was the exploration of the new land. Novels might describe the harsh environment and the struggles of settlers. Also, the language used was somewhat archaic compared to modern English, with a lot of religious and biblical references.
These serial novels were sometimes a reflection of the changing society. As America was evolving in the 19th century, with industrialization and westward expansion, novels like those in the list often incorporated these elements. They might show the contrast between rural and urban life, or the impact of new ideas on traditional communities. For example, some novels explored how new religious or philosophical ideas were affecting people's lives in different regions of the country.
The settings were often very detailed. Take the Sherlock Holmes stories again. The descriptions of London, from the fog - covered streets to the seedy alleys, added to the atmosphere of mystery. Also, the characters in these novels were typically well - defined, with distinct personalities that contributed to the overall mystery and suspense of the story.
Often, they blend local culture. For instance, they might incorporate elements like Turkish coffee houses which could be settings for mystery - related conversations.
Well, 19th - century Irish mystery novels typically incorporated elements of Irish folklore and superstition. This added an extra layer of mystery. The characters were often complex, with hidden motives and secrets. The writing style was usually detailed, painting vivid pictures of the Irish society of the time. And there was a sense of the unknown lurking in the background, whether it was a hidden family secret or a strange apparition. These novels also sometimes explored themes of morality and the darker side of human nature in the context of the Irish setting.
They often had a strong sense of realism. Writers like Theodore Dreiser depicted the harsh realities of life, such as poverty and social inequality. For example, in 'Sister Carrie', he showed how a young woman struggled in the big city.