What are the characteristics of Australian first novels?

Many best Australian novels often have a strong connection to the Australian landscape. For example, in 'The Thorn Birds', the outback is almost like a character itself, shaping the lives and loves of the people. They also tend to explore themes like isolation and the struggle between different cultures, as seen in some works that deal with the relationship between the Aboriginal and non - Aboriginal Australians.

Many Australian history novels tend to explore the nation's identity formation. They show how different waves of immigration, from convicts to free settlers, have shaped the country. Novels like 'A Town Like Alice' show how the experiences of individuals during war and post - war times contributed to the Australian identity. Moreover, they often incorporate elements of Australian culture, such as bush lore and the mateship concept.

Australian novels frequently incorporate the country's rich Aboriginal heritage in some way, either through direct storytelling about Aboriginal characters or by using Aboriginal cultural elements as a backdrop. In novels like 'Remembering Babylon', the Aboriginal presence and the relationship between the colonizers and the indigenous people are important aspects of the narrative.

Australian romance novels also tend to explore different cultural aspects. Since Australia has a diverse population, this can be reflected in the relationships and romances in the books. They might deal with issues like the clash or fusion of different cultures. Moreover, many Australian romance novels have strong female characters. These women are often independent, which makes their romantic relationships more interesting and complex as they strive for equality and self - discovery within the relationship.

Australian horror novels tend to have a sense of isolation. Characters are often cut off from the rest of the world, whether it's on a remote island or in the middle of the outback. This isolation amplifies the horror. Also, there is a certain rawness in the way they depict horror. It's not always polished and can be very visceral. Take 'The Troop' for instance, the descriptions of the physical horror are quite intense. Moreover, the themes often revolve around the relationship between man and nature in Australia, which can be a source of great horror when things go wrong.

Australian school novels often feature the unique Australian landscape and culture. They may show the daily life of students in Australian schools, like the relationships between students and teachers, and different types of friendships. For example, some novels might focus on how students from diverse backgrounds interact and form bonds in the school environment.

One characteristic is the use of Australian landscapes as a backdrop. For example, deserts, rainforests, and coastlines often play important roles in the stories, adding a distinct and vivid setting. Another is the incorporation of Aboriginal mythology and folklore, which gives a unique cultural flavor. For instance, in many Australian fantasy novels, Dreamtime stories might be reimagined or incorporated in some way.

They also tend to explore themes related to Australian identity. This can include the relationship between the settlers and the indigenous people, as well as the struggle to build a new life in a new and sometimes unforgiving land. A good example is how 'For the Term of His Natural Life' by Marcus Clarke delved into the convict experience which was part of Australia's early history.

Australian spy novels often incorporate local cultural elements. They might include Aboriginal lore or the Aussie sense of humor. This gives them a distinct flavor compared to spy novels from other countries. Also, they may deal with issues specific to Australia like relations with its Asian neighbors in the context of spying.

Many top Australian novels often have a strong connection to the Australian landscape. They use the unique Australian outback, beaches, or cities as backdrops that influence the story and characters.