Eng 202

Introduction:
The 18th century was a transformative period in English literature, marked by the growth of two
influential forms: the English novel and the periodical essay. These genres not only reflected the
social and cultural changes of the time but also influenced the development of literature as a means
for entertainment, moral instruction, and social critique.
The Growth of English Fiction in the 18th Century
The 18th century is often regarded as the birth of the English novel, a genre that gained popularity
as it evolved from earlier narrative forms like epic poetry, romances, and religious allegories.
Several factors contributed to the rise of the novel:
1. Emerging Middle Class and Literacy: The expansion of the middle class and increased literacy
rates fueled the demand for reading material that reflected everyday experiences. This new
audience sought entertainment and moral instruction, leading to the popularity of novels that
depicted realistic characters and relatable stories.
2. Influential Novelists: Daniel Defoe: Often considered one of the first English novelists, Defoe’s
Robinson Crusoe (1719) was a breakthrough in fiction. It presented the tale of a man’s survival on
a deserted island, blending adventure with psychological insight. Defoe's realistic style and focus
on individual experience marked a significant departure from previous forms.
Samuel Richardson: Richardson’s Pamela (1740) is known as one of the first "novels of
sentiment." Written in an epistolary style (through letters), it was a story of virtue rewarded,
focusing on the inner emotions and struggles of a young servant girl. This character-driven
narrative provided readers with intimate access to personal thoughts and emotions, laying the
groundwork for psychological fiction.
Henry Fielding: In contrast to Richardson, Fielding’s Tom Jones (1749) brought a comic, satirical
perspective to the novel. His works were more complex, often featuring numerous characters and
intricate plots. Fielding’s novels depicted a variety of social classes and situations, providing a
broader view of society.
3. Characteristics of the 18th-Century Novel:
Realism: Unlike previous forms of literature, novels in the 18th century focused on everyday life,
realistic characters, and plausible events. They offered readers a mirror to their own world.
Moral and Social Critique: Many 18th-century novels explored social issues such as class, gender
roles, and morality. Writers like Richardson and Fielding used their works to examine human
nature, encourage virtuous behavior, and critique the flaws of society.
Experimentation with Form: The novel was still a new form, so authors experimented with
different structures. The epistolary form (letters), the picaresque (adventures of a roguish hero),
and multiple narrators were among the techniques explored.
4. Impact on Literature and Society:
The novel became an important form of entertainment and moral instruction. Its popularity helped
to standardize English prose and encouraged other writers to experiment with long-form narratives.
As novels became more accessible, they helped democratize literature, reaching readers beyond
the educated elite.
The Development of the Periodical Essay
The periodical essay was another key literary development of the 18th century. It was a short, often
witty piece of nonfiction that appeared in regularly published periodicals, appealing to readers who
sought commentary on contemporary life and morals.
1. Cultural Context and Appeal: The rise of coffeehouses and social clubs provided venues for
discussion and debate. Periodicals became popular reading material in these settings, appealing to
an educated and socially engaged middle class. Periodicals like The Tatler and The Spectator
offered brief, accessible essays on topics such as manners, politics, philosophy, and society,
catering to readers interested in personal improvement and social issues.
2. Key Contributors: Richard Steele and Joseph Addison: Steele and Addison are often credited
with popularizing the periodical essay through The Tatler (1709–1711) and The Spectator (1711–
1712). These publications combined humor, social criticism, and moral reflection, with the goal of
"enlightening and entertaining" their audience.
The Spectator: Addison and Steele’s The Spectator featured essays that introduced memorable
characters, such as Sir Roger de Coverley, who embodied virtues and foibles of the time. Through
these characters, the essays gently critiqued societal norms, promoting values like reason,
moderation, and politeness.
3. Characteristics of the Periodical Essay: Brevity and Accessibility: Periodical essays were
typically short, making them easy to read in one sitting. They were written in a conversational
style, making complex ideas accessible to a broader audience.
Moral and Social Commentary: These essays often aimed to improve readers’ morals and manners,
addressing issues of behavior, taste, and social norms. They reflected Enlightenment values of
reason and rational discourse.
Satire and Wit: Many essays employed satire to critique societal vices and excesses. Addison and
Steele used humor to highlight human weaknesses, promoting a more civilized and self-aware
society.
4. Impact on Literature and Society: The periodical essay influenced the development of modern
journalism and nonfiction writing. It also fostered public discourse on issues of ethics, manners,
and culture, shaping social attitudes and values.
By promoting reason, refinement, and self-improvement, periodical essays contributed to the

formation of a more reflective, polite society.
Conclusion
The 18th century witnessed the growth of both the novel and the periodical essay, two genres that
continue to influence literature and media today. The novel, with its focus on individual experience
and moral questions, reflected the rise of a literate middle class and addressed new social realities.
Meanwhile, the periodical essay fostered a culture of reflection, discussion, and polite criticism,
encouraging readers to engage with the issues of their time. Together, these forms laid the
foundation for modern literary traditions, contributing to a more literate, self-aware, and socially
conscious society.

Eng 202

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Eng 202

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Introduction:

The Growth of English Fiction in the 18th Century

4. Impact on Literature and Society:

The Development of the Periodical Essay

By promoting reason, refinement, and self-improvement, periodical essays contributed to the

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