For those who missed class today (Monday, March 11th) we began discussing the characteristics of a Picaresque novel or narrative and how
Huck Finn meets the criteria. Below you will find the details of a Picaresque novel. Continue
reading Huck Finn you should have through
chapter 16 (pg. 65) by
Thursday.
Picaresque Novel:
The picaresque novel (Spanish: "picaresca," from "pícaro," for
"rogue" or "rascal") is a popular sub-genre of prose fiction which
is usually satirical and
depicts, in realistic and often humorous detail, the adventures of
a roguish hero of
low social class who lives by his wits in a corrupt society. This
style of novel originated in sixteenth century Spain and
flourished throughout Europe in the seventeenth and eighteenth
centuries. It continues to influence modern literature.
Seven Characteristics:
Seven qualities distinguish the picaresque novel or
narrative form. All or some of these may be employed for effect by the author. (1) A
picaresque narrative is usually written in first person as an autobiographical
account. (2) The main character is often of low character or social
class. He or she gets by with wit and rarely deigns to hold a job. (3) There
is no plot. The story is told in a series of loosely
connected adventures or episodes. (4) There is little if any
character development in the main character. Once a picaro, always a picaro.
His or her circumstances may change but rarely result in a change of heart. (5) The
picaro's story is told with a plainness of language or realism. (6) Satire is a
prominent element. (7) The behavior of a picaresque hero or heroine
stops just short of criminality. Carefree or
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