The exploration of early novelists' claims of truthfulness reveals a unique perspective on the history of the novel in England and France. Nicholas D. Paige argues that these authors engaged in this pretense not for credibility, but as a means to navigate the evolving literary landscape. The book delves into the motivations behind this literary strategy, offering insights into the relationship between fiction and reality during the formative years of the novel.
Autobiography and the Contradiction of Modernity in Seventeenth-Century France
The evolution of autobiography reflects a transformative view of the self, showcasing how personal narratives have adapted over time. This exploration delves into the changing perceptions of identity and the significance of individual stories in understanding human experience. Through examining various autobiographical works, the book highlights the interplay between personal and collective histories, emphasizing the importance of self-representation in contemporary society.
Based on a systematic sampling of French and English novels over more than two centuries, this book sets aside the familiar histories of the genre's so- called 'rise', proposing that the novel is a system whose constant yet patterned flux must be understood in the context of technological evolution more generally.