What are the characteristics of early detective novels?

Early detective fiction often had simple yet engaging plots. The detectives were usually very intelligent and observant. For example, Sherlock Holmes in Conan Doyle's works could deduce a lot from small details like the type of mud on someone's shoes.

Early detective stories, like those by Collins, often had elaborate plots. They would involve multiple characters and sub - plots. There was also a focus on the process of detection. The detective in these stories would gradually piece together clues, which could be physical evidence or statements from witnesses. This slow - build - up of the solution added to the suspense.

One characteristic is their use of archaic language. For example, in 'The Canterbury Tales', Chaucer's Middle English can be quite challenging to modern readers but gives a unique flavor. Another is their focus on moral and religious teachings. Many early novels were written to convey certain values of the time.

One characteristic is the use of humor and satire. For example, in 'Don Quixote', Cervantes mocks the chivalric ideals of the time through the comical actions of Don Quixote. Another is the vivid and often exaggerated characters. In 'The Canterbury Tales', Chaucer creates a diverse group of pilgrims with distinct and sometimes comical personalities.

Early American novels often had a strong moral or religious undertone. For example, many were written to teach lessons about good and evil, like 'The Scarlet Letter' which explored themes of sin and redemption.

Early romance novels often had simple and idealized plots. They usually centered around a male and a female protagonist falling in love. The settings were sometimes in historical or fictional places. For example, in some early English romance novels, the stories might be set in a medieval castle or a countryside manor.

Early vampire novels often had a sense of gothic horror. They typically presented vampires as menacing, nocturnal creatures. For example, in 'Dracula' by Bram Stoker, the vampire Count Dracula was depicted as having superhuman strength and an alluring yet dangerous charm. He could control the minds of others to some extent and was associated with the night, castles, and the supernatural.

Early mystery novels often had a focus on solving a crime or a mystery. For example, in 'The Murders in the Rue Morgue', the main character is trying to figure out who committed the murders.

One characteristic is their often complex narrative structures. They might have multiple plotlines interwoven. For example, 'The Canterbury Tales' by Geoffrey Chaucer has different stories told by various pilgrims, each with its own mini - plot. Another aspect is the use of archaic language which can be a bit difficult for modern readers at first. Also, early English novels often had moral or didactic elements, aiming to teach the readers something about society, ethics or religion.

Again, focusing on erotic novels is not proper. But generally, early literary works often had complex social and cultural backgrounds.