What are the characteristics of 19th century American novels?

One characteristic is the influence of Puritan values. Many 18th - century American novels often reflected the Puritan work ethic, moral codes, and ideas of sin and redemption. For example, in some works, characters' actions were judged based on Puritan beliefs. Another aspect was the exploration of the new American identity. As the colonies were growing and developing, novels started to depict the unique American experience, different from that of Europe. Also, the language in these novels was gradually forming its own American flavor, distinct from the more formal English of the mother country.

Well, one characteristic is the influence of Puritan values. These novels often had a moral or religious undertone. For example, 'The Bay Psalm Book' was an important work that reflected religious beliefs of the time. Another aspect was the exploration of the new land. Novels might describe the harsh environment and the struggles of settlers. Also, the language used was somewhat archaic compared to modern English, with a lot of religious and biblical references.

These serial novels were sometimes a reflection of the changing society. As America was evolving in the 19th century, with industrialization and westward expansion, novels like those in the list often incorporated these elements. They might show the contrast between rural and urban life, or the impact of new ideas on traditional communities. For example, some novels explored how new religious or philosophical ideas were affecting people's lives in different regions of the country.

They often had a strong sense of realism. Writers like Theodore Dreiser depicted the harsh realities of life, such as poverty and social inequality. For example, in 'Sister Carrie', he showed how a young woman struggled in the big city.

Social issues were a big part of these novels. In 'Uncle Tom's Cabin' by Harriet Beecher Stowe, the issue of slavery was at the forefront. It was a very influential novel that helped to fuel the abolitionist movement.

One characteristic is the complex and often convoluted plots. These novels liked to keep readers guessing with multiple twists and turns. For example, in 'The Woman in White', the identity of the woman in white herself is a mystery that is slowly unraveled through a web of lies and deceptions.

The 19th - century American Gothic novels often had elements of the supernatural. Ghosts, witches, and other uncanny beings were common. Also, they frequently explored themes of madness and the breakdown of the human psyche. The social and cultural context of the time, such as the fear of the unknown in a rapidly expanding nation, influenced these elements. For instance, Hawthorne's works often delved into the Puritan past and the sense of guilt associated with it, which added to the Gothic atmosphere.

They often had idealized love stories. For example, in some novels, the hero and heroine overcame great social differences to be together. The settings were usually in the American landscape, like the plantations in the South.

One characteristic is the exploration of social issues. For example, novels often dealt with the gap between the rich and the poor. Another is the development of regionalism, where writers depicted the unique cultures and landscapes of different American regions.

One characteristic was the exploration of the American frontier. Novels often depicted the adventures and challenges of settlers in the expanding West. Another was the focus on individualism. Characters strived for personal freedom and self - determination. Also, moral and social issues like slavery were increasingly addressed as the century progressed.