Novel (noun)
Definition
A “novel” is a long work of fiction, typically written in prose, that tells a narrative story exploring characters, events, and themes in a more extensive and complex manner than short stories. Novels are a popular form of storytelling and entertainment in literature.
Etymology
The word “novel” comes from the Old Italian word “novella,” which means a “short story” or “tale.” It evolved from Latin “novellus,” meaning “new” or “young,” which shares its root with the word “new.”
Synonyms
- Book
- Fiction
- Tale
- Story
- Narrative
- Romance
- Novelization
Antonyms
- Non-fiction
- Factual
- Biography
- History
- True story
Example
A unique example of a novel is “House of Leaves” by Mark Z. Danielewski. This novel is known for its unconventional narrative style, with multiple layers of storytelling, footnotes, and different fonts to create a complex and immersive reading experience.
FAQs(Frequently Asked Questions)
When was the first novel written?
The first novel is often credited to “The Tale of Genji” (Genji Monogatari), written by Murasaki Shikibu, a Japanese noblewoman, in the early 11th century.
What are some famous examples of classic novels?
Some famous classic novels include “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen, “Moby-Dick” by Herman Melville, “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee, “1984” by George Orwell, and “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald, among others.
How does a novel differ from a novella or a short story?
Novels are longer than both novellas and short stories. A novella is typically shorter and more focused than a novel, while a short story is the briefest form of fiction, usually centered around one main idea or event.
What are some popular contemporary novels?
Popular contemporary novels include “The Harry Potter Series” by J.K. Rowling, “The Hunger Games” trilogy by Suzanne Collins, “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” by Stieg Larsson, “The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak, and “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn, among others.
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