Picaresque novel

Definition

A picaresque novel is a genre of prose fiction that depicts the adventures of a roguish hero, typically of low social class, who lives by their wits in a corrupt society. This type of narrative often features episodic structure and satirical commentary on social issues. The picaresque tradition allows for a unique exploration of themes such as class struggle, morality, and human folly, particularly evident in works like Henry Fielding's 'Joseph Andrews'.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Joseph Andrews' is often considered one of the first English picaresque novels and exemplifies the genre's characteristics through its protagonist's journey and encounters.
2. The picaresque novel originated in Spain with works like 'Lazarillo de Tormes', influencing later European literature including English narratives.
3. Fielding's use of humor and irony in 'Joseph Andrews' serves to critique social hierarchies and moral pretensions of 18th-century British society.
4. Picaresque novels often incorporate a first-person narrative style, allowing readers to experience the picaro's perspective and societal commentary firsthand.
5. The genre reflects Enlightenment ideals by emphasizing individualism and the importance of personal experience over traditional moral values.

Review Questions

• How does Fielding's 'Joseph Andrews' embody the characteristics of the picaresque novel?
  • 'Joseph Andrews' showcases the features of the picaresque genre through its episodic adventures of the protagonist, Joseph, who is a picaro navigating a corrupt society. The novel's satirical elements reveal the hypocrisy of social norms and portray various characters from different social classes. Fielding's use of humor and irony further enhances the exploration of moral dilemmas faced by Joseph, reflecting the broader themes associated with picaresque literature.
• Discuss the significance of social commentary in picaresque novels, particularly in relation to Enlightenment thinkers like Locke and Newton.
  • Picaresque novels are significant for their sharp social commentary, addressing themes like class inequality and human behavior in a manner that resonates with Enlightenment ideals. Thinkers like Locke emphasized individual rights and experiences, which are echoed in the journeys of picaresque protagonists who often challenge societal norms. This connection to Enlightenment philosophy allows authors to critique not only personal morality but also the structures of society itself, making the picaresque novel a vital form for reflecting contemporary issues.
• Evaluate how the structure and style of picaresque novels contribute to their thematic depth and societal critique.
  • The episodic structure of picaresque novels allows for diverse encounters that collectively deepen the narrative's thematic complexity. By presenting a series of loosely connected adventures, these novels reveal different facets of society, exposing corruption and moral ambiguity. The first-person perspective employed in many picaresque works invites readers into the mind of the picaro, fostering empathy and reflection on their experiences. This combination of style and structure not only enhances character development but also reinforces the societal critiques central to the genre.

Related terms

Picaro: The protagonist in a picaresque novel, often portrayed as a cunning and resourceful individual who navigates through various social classes and encounters.

Episodic Structure: A narrative format characterized by a series of loosely connected events or episodes rather than a tightly woven plot, common in picaresque novels.

Satire: A literary technique that uses humor, irony, and exaggeration to criticize or mock societal norms, prevalent in picaresque literature.