What are some characteristics of 'the great brain novels'?

One example could be 'A Brief History of Time' by Stephen Hawking. It's a great brain novel as it delves deep into the mysteries of the universe, requiring readers to use their brains to understand concepts like time, space, and black holes.

Well, many great feminist novels often have strong female protagonists. For example, in 'The Awakening' by Kate Chopin, the main character Edna Pontellier rebels against the restrictive roles of women in the 19th - century society. Another characteristic is the exploration of gender inequality. In 'The Yellow Wallpaper' by Charlotte Perkins Gilman, it shows how a woman's mental health is affected by the lack of agency. Also, they might question traditional gender roles, like in 'Orlando' by Virginia Woolf where the main character changes gender and experiences different aspects of life.

One characteristic is the blurring of boundaries. In great postmodern novels, the distinction between high and low culture is often muddled. For example, a postmodern novel might combine elements of a classic literary form with pop - culture references like in 'The Crying of Lot 49' by Thomas Pynchon which weaves in references to modern consumer culture within a complex narrative structure. Another is the use of metafiction, where the story is self - aware and comments on the act of storytelling itself.

One characteristic is the vivid portrayal of the southern landscape. It often sets a distinct mood. For example, in 'Gone with the Wind', the descriptions of the plantations in the South give a sense of grandeur and a connection to the land. Another aspect is the complex characters with strong regional identities. These characters may have traditional values deeply rooted in southern culture, like the sense of family honor and propriety. Also, great southern novels often deal with themes of race, class, and gender, reflecting the complex social hierarchies that have long existed in the South.

One characteristic is their timeless themes. For example, 'Pride and Prejudice' has the ever - relevant theme of love and marriage. Another is their complex characters. In 'Moby - Dick', Captain Ahab is a very complex and obsessed character. Also, classic novels often have rich language. 'To Kill a Mockingbird' uses vivid language to describe the setting and characters.

Some characteristics include fragmented narratives. For example, in 'Ulysses' by James Joyce, the story jumps around in time and place, and the stream - of - consciousness technique is used, which shows the random flow of characters' thoughts. Another characteristic is the exploration of the individual's relationship with society. Modernist novels often question traditional values and social norms, like 'The Great Gatsby' which reflects on the American Dream and the hollowness of the upper class society.

Well, one characteristic is their exploration of the American Dream. They often show characters striving for success and a better life, whether it's in terms of wealth, status or personal fulfillment. Another is the reflection of different historical periods in America, like the Civil War or the Great Depression.

Well, great gothic novels typically have an atmosphere of suspense and horror. They often feature a sense of the unknown that lurks in the shadows. The architecture in these novels, be it the decaying mansions or ancient abbeys, plays a significant role in creating an eerie mood. Moreover, the characters usually face moral dilemmas and psychological distress, which adds to the overall dark and brooding nature of the story.

Well, one characteristic is the vivid portrayal of the frontier landscape. Western novels often describe vast deserts, majestic mountains and open plains in great detail. Another is the tough and independent characters. Cowboys, outlaws and settlers in these novels usually have a strong will and a sense of self - reliance. Also, the themes of justice, survival and the clash between civilization and wilderness are common.

Great crime novels typically have a strong sense of suspense. This makes the reader eager to turn the pages to find out what happens next. They also tend to have a moral or ethical dimension, exploring the nature of right and wrong. And many great crime novels are set in gritty urban environments, which gives a sense of realism.