The language used in these novels is often very sophisticated. Take 'Middlemarch' for instance. George Eliot's prose is detailed and nuanced, allowing her to paint a vivid picture of the fictional town of Middlemarch and the many lives within it. These novels also tend to be very influential, inspiring other writers and works in different forms of media over the years.
Many British novels are known for their complex characters. For example, in 'Great Expectations' by Charles Dickens, Pip is a character who goes through a lot of changes in his life, which reflects the complexity of human nature.
The Victorian novels in the list tend to have elaborate descriptions. They paint a vivid picture of the era, whether it's the cityscapes in London as in 'Our Mutual Friend' or the rural settings like in 'Tess of the d'Urbervilles'. The moral and ethical values of the time are also a big part of these novels. Characters are often judged based on their adherence to the Victorian moral code. And many of them have a strong sense of narrative structure, with a clear beginning, middle and end, which helps to engage the readers.
Well, one characteristic is their rich use of language. British short novels often have a very precise and evocative use of words. For example, in 'A Room with a View' by E. M. Forster, the descriptions of the Italian landscape are so vivid that you can almost feel like you are there.
Complex characters are also common. The detectives are often brilliant yet flawed, like Sherlock Holmes with his idiosyncrasies. And the villains are usually cunning and well - hidden. These novels also tend to have intricate plots. There are often multiple layers of mystery, false leads, and unexpected revelations at the end. Take Agatha Christie's works, where she weaves together a web of clues that keep readers guessing until the very end.
Well, the best British postmodern novels often have fragmented narratives. Take 'Midnight's Children' for instance. It jumps around in time and perspective, creating a complex tapestry of the story. They also tend to question established truths and authorities. In 'V for Vendetta', it challenges the idea of the state's power and control. And meta - fictional elements are frequently present, like in 'White Teeth' which is self - aware of its own fictional nature.
Many best British contemporary novels often have complex characters. For example, in 'White Teeth', the characters come from diverse backgrounds and have their own internal conflicts and desires. They also tend to deal with modern - day issues such as multiculturalism, as seen in Zadie Smith's works. Another characteristic is the exploration of different literary styles. Some may use a non - linear narrative like 'Cloud Atlas' to tell a more engaging and multi - faceted story.
Well, a lot of the best modern British novels are great at depicting the British landscape in a more than just physical sense. In 'On Beauty', Zadie Smith manages to capture the cultural and social 'landscape' of modern Britain. They also often use irony and satire to make their points. For example, some novels will satirize the upper classes or the academic world. And many of them blend different genres together. 'The Goldfinch' combines elements of a coming - of - age story with a mystery and an exploration of the art world.
In a list of best novels, many works have deep cultural significance. 'One Hundred Years of Solitude' is a prime example. It not only tells a family's story but also reflects on the history and culture of Latin America. These novels are also thought - provoking. 'Crime and Punishment' makes readers think about morality, guilt, and redemption. And they usually have a certain level of emotional impact, whether it's the heartbreak in 'A Farewell to Arms' or the hope in 'The Alchemist'.
Many of them often have complex characters. For example, in some stories, the characters may seem ordinary at first but as the story unfolds, their true natures are revealed, like in 'The Lady with the Dog'. Also, the settings are well - crafted, whether it's a dreary English countryside or a bustling city street. They also tend to deal with deep themes such as love, loss, and morality.
One characteristic is the complex characters. In British psychological thrillers, characters often have hidden motives and secrets. For example, in 'Gone Girl', both the main characters are not what they seem at first. Another is the use of atmosphere. British settings like old mansions or foggy streets can create a sense of unease, as seen in 'The Woman in Black'. Also, the exploration of the human mind is key. These novels often dig into topics like madness, memory, and identity, like in 'Before I Go to Sleep' where the main character's struggle with memory loss is central to the plot.