novel

Novels are long works of prose fiction that tell a story through connected events and the development of characters over time. They typically explore individual or social worlds, often emphasizing interior life, moral questions, or social conflict. Unlike shorter fictions, novels unfold across many pages and may integrate multiple settings, voices, and narrative perspectives. They commonly use chapters and a range of techniques to structure plot and characterization.

The form emerged in early modern Europe, with precursors in medieval romance and picaresque fiction. The modern English novel began in the 18th century with writers such as Daniel Defoe, Samuel Richardson, and Henry Fielding, producing works like Robinson Crusoe, Pamela, and Tom Jones. Don Quixote (1605/1615) is often cited as an early influence on the development of the form. Through the 19th century the novel expanded with realism and social critique in Europe and beyond, shaping standards of narrative technique and moral inquiry.

Subgenres include historical, realist, psychological, coming-of-age (bildungsroman), romance, crime, science fiction, and magical realism. Narrative strategies range from omniscient narration to close third person, first person, and stream of consciousness. The novel often emphasizes character development and social context, and may experiment with form, voice, and chronology. Modern and postmodern works frequently employ metafiction, unreliable narrators, and nontraditional structures.

Today the novel remains a dominant form of long fiction in many languages, influencing education, culture, and media. It serves as a vehicle for social commentary, ethical reflection, and experimentation with language and form.