Many of them have a focus on Dutch identity. Novels like 'The Heart of the Netherlands' show the unique aspects of Dutch culture, such as the rural way of life, the importance of family and community. They use the Dutch language in a way that is rich in local flavor, with descriptions of the landscape, the weather, and the typical Dutch buildings. This helps to create a sense of place and belonging for the Dutch readers. Moreover, the characters in these novels are often shaped by the values and norms of the 19th - century Dutch society, whether it's the strict moral codes or the class - based social structures.
Often, they reflect the social and political situations of the time. For example, 'Max Havelaar' was a strong voice against colonial exploitation.
There is also 'Eline Vere' by Louis Couperus. This novel delves into the complex emotions and social situations of the upper - class Dutch society in the 19th century. It shows the strict social hierarchies, the restricted lives of women, and the inner turmoil of the characters within that society.
Typically, they have elements of mystery. For example, in 'The Castle of Otranto', there are strange happenings like the appearance of a gigantic helmet that crush people, and the mystery of why these things occur keeps the reader intrigued.
Well, many classic Dutch novels are known for their introspective nature. The characters in these novels often engage in deep self - reflection. For instance, in 'The Evenings', the main character spends his evenings thinking about his life, his relationships, and his place in the world. Moreover, Dutch novels can be quite socially conscious. They may address issues like class differences, as seen in some of Couperus' works.
One characteristic was the use of elaborate language. Writers in these centuries were fond of detailed descriptions. Also, many 17th and 18th century novels focused on character development. Take 'Robinson Crusoe' for instance. We see how Crusoe changes from a young, reckless man to a more self - reliant and resourceful one over the course of his time on the island.
These novels typically explored social issues. In the 18th and 19th centuries, there were big changes in society. Novels were a way to show things like class differences. Dickens' works, such as 'Oliver Twist', showed the harshness of the lower classes' lives compared to the rich.
One characteristic is the exploration of complex social issues. For example, in Charles Dickens' novels of the 19th century like 'Oliver Twist', he exposed the harshness of the Victorian poor laws and the plight of the working class. In the 20th century, novels such as George Orwell's '1984' delved into totalitarianism and the loss of individual freedoms. Another aspect is the development of different literary styles. The 19th century saw the rise of the realist novel, with detailed descriptions of daily life. The 20th century then branched out into modernist and post - modernist styles, which often experimented with narrative structure and the concept of time.
Well, many 18th and 19th century novels were highly moralistic. Novels like 'Oliver Twist' by Charles Dickens aimed to expose the social ills of the time, such as poverty and child exploitation. The settings were often based on real - life locations of that era, which added authenticity. The narrative style was typically linear, guiding the reader through a series of events in a more or less chronological order. And they frequently explored themes of class struggle, as society was very stratified during those centuries.
In novels, the 17th - century Dutch in Japan often had a complex relationship. They were among the few Westerners allowed in Japan during that period of isolation. They mainly engaged in trade, bringing European goods like firearms and textiles. Their presence was tolerated as they seemed less of a threat compared to other Western powers in terms of religious influence. For example, they were confined to a small trading post in Nagasaki, which shows their restricted but still significant role in Japan's early interactions with the West.
They were often portrayed as exotic traders. Novels might show them arriving in their large ships with strange goods from far - away lands. They were distinct from the Japanese in appearance, with their fair skin and different clothing styles.
Complex characters are also common. They are not just one - dimensional. In 'Wuthering Heights' by Emily Bronte, Heathcliff is a multi - faceted character with a mix of love, hatred, and revenge in his heart. His complex personality drives the tragic story.