How did 16th century historical novels reflect the society of that time?

It reflected through the portrayal of classes. For example, in Dickens' works, we can see the clear divide between the rich and the poor. The rich often had luxurious lifestyles while the poor struggled in slums.

18th - century historical fiction often showed the class differences. For example, in 'Tom Jones', the different behaviors and opportunities of the upper and lower classes were depicted. It also reflected the political climate. Novels might touch on the power struggles and ideas like democracy emerging at that time. And the role of women was a common theme, as in 'Evelina' where we can see the limited options and strict social norms for women in 18th - century society.

Religious beliefs were a major part of 17th - century society and this was reflected in the historical fiction. In works set in Puritan colonies, like 'The Scarlet Letter', the strict moral code of the Puritans was central. Sin was harshly judged, and redemption was a long and difficult process. The influence of the church in people's daily lives was also depicted, from attending services to following religious laws.

Many 18th - century novels were a mirror of the economic situation of the time. In 'Robinson Crusoe', we can see the emerging ideas of capitalism. Crusoe's efforts to build his own little 'empire' on the island reflect the entrepreneurial spirit of the era. Also, the moral and religious values were prominent. Novels like 'Candide' criticized the religious hypocrisy while still being influenced by the overall religious context of the 18th century. And in terms of politics, some novels subtly commented on the power structures and the monarchy system through their stories.

18th - century gay novels often reflected society in a veiled manner. Since homosexuality was not openly accepted, these novels might use euphemisms or more subtle character interactions. For example, in some works, a deep and intense male - male friendship was depicted which could be seen as a way of hinting at same - sex attraction without being too blatant, as open homosexuality was against the moral and legal norms of the time.

19th - century Spanish novels reflected society in various ways. For example, in 'La Regenta', the characters' interactions and their moral struggles were a mirror of the complex social hierarchies and the influence of the Church. The upper - class characters' behavior and the way they treated others showed the class divisions. In 'El Sombrero de Tres Picos', the story set in a rural environment revealed the daily life, traditions, and economic aspects of the common people in 19th - century Spain.

19th - century Catholic novels often reflected the society of the time in various ways. For instance, they showed the importance of the Church in people's daily lives. In novels like 'The Hunchback of Notre - Dame', the cathedral is not just a building but a central part of the community, representing the power and influence of the Catholic Church. The characters' actions and values were also shaped by Catholic teachings, which in turn showed how society was guided by religious norms.

In 'The Canterbury Tales', the different stories told by the pilgrims reflect various aspects of medieval society like the social hierarchy. The knight represents the chivalric class, while the miller shows the working - class with their own set of values. 'Don Quixote' also reflects society. It shows the contrast between the idealized world in Don Quixote's mind and the real, often harsh world of 17th - century Spain, highlighting the gap between dreams and reality.

19th century sailor novels reflected society in terms of the values of the time. The idea of masculinity was often emphasized, with sailors being shown as tough and resourceful. They also showed the influence of religion. Many sailors in these novels had a strong religious faith which was a significant part of 19th - century society. Moreover, the descriptions of far - off lands in these novels were influenced by the imperialist ideas of the era, showing how the Western world viewed other cultures during the 19th century.

They reflected it through the settings. For example, descriptions of the city streets, the different neighborhoods, and the social classes living in New York. Novels like 'The Wide, Wide World' showed the contrast between the wealthy and the poor areas.