BOOK BRIEF

The Rise of the Novel: Studies in Defoe, Richardson and Fielding

Ian Watt
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The Rise of the Novel: Studies in Defoe, Richardson and Fielding

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2001

Book Brief

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Ian Watt

The Rise of the Novel: Studies in Defoe, Richardson and Fielding

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2001
Book Details
Pages

339

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Genre
British Literature

Philosophy

Education
Setting

England • 18th century

Theme
Language
Topic
Philosophy

Education

Sociology
Publication Year

2001

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Rise of the Novel: Studies in Defoe, Richardson and Fielding by Ian Watt explores the development of the novel in 18th-century England. The text examines how authors Daniel Defoe, Samuel Richardson, and Henry Fielding contributed to this literary form by focusing on individualized characters and realistic narratives, shaping the novel into a dominant literary genre.

Informative

Contemplative

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

3.8

927 ratings

66%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Ian Watt's The Rise of the Novel offers insightful analysis into the formative works of Defoe, Richardson, and Fielding, praising the depth of historical and social context. Some critics argue Watt overlooks other literary influences, but overall, the book is lauded for its pioneering approach in understanding the novel's evolution.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Rise of the Novel: Studies in Defoe, Richardson and Fielding?

A reader who enjoys The Rise of the Novel by Ian Watt likely has an interest in the evolution of the novel, 18th-century literature, and authors like Defoe, Richardson, and Fielding. Comparable to Anatomy of Criticism by Northrop Frye, this reader seeks scholarly insights into literary history and novelistic form.

3.8

927 ratings

66%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

339

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Genre
British Literature

Philosophy

Education
Setting

England • 18th century

Theme
Language
Topic
Philosophy

Education

Sociology
Publication Year

2001

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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