Aspects of the Novel

What's "Aspects of the Novel" about?

• Overview of the book: "Aspects of the Novel" by E.M. Forster is a series of lectures that explore the various elements that make up a novel. It was originally delivered as the Clark Lectures at Cambridge University in 1927.
• Focus on literary criticism: The book examines the novel's structure, characters, plot, and other components, offering insights into how these elements contribute to the overall impact of a novel.
• Influence on literary theory: Forster's work has been influential in 20th-century literary criticism, particularly his distinctions between "flat" and "round" characters.

Why should I read "Aspects of the Novel"?

• Understanding of novel structure: The book provides a comprehensive analysis of the novel's form, which can enhance your appreciation and understanding of literature.
• Insight into character development: Forster's discussion on "flat" and "round" characters offers valuable insights into character creation and development in fiction.
• Influential literary criticism: As a seminal work in literary criticism, it has shaped the way novels are analyzed and understood, making it essential reading for students and enthusiasts of literature.

What are the key takeaways of "Aspects of the Novel"?

• Story vs. plot: Forster distinguishes between the story, which is a sequence of events, and the plot, which involves causality and the reasons behind events.
• Character types: He introduces the concepts of "flat" and "round" characters, explaining how they function differently within a narrative.
• Role of fantasy and prophecy: Forster discusses how fantasy and prophecy can be used in novels to transcend ordinary reality and explore deeper truths.

What is the difference between "flat" and "round" characters according to E.M. Forster?

• Flat characters: These are simple, one-dimensional characters that can be summed up in a single sentence. They are often used for comic effect or to serve a specific narrative function.
• Round characters: These are complex and multi-dimensional, capable of growth and change. They surprise the reader in a convincing way and are more like real people.
• Purpose in novels: Forster argues that both types of characters have their place in literature, with flat characters providing stability and round characters offering depth.

How does E.M. Forster define "story" and "plot" in "Aspects of the Novel"?

• Story definition: Forster defines a story as a narrative of events arranged in their time sequence, focusing on what happens next.
• Plot definition: A plot, on the other hand, emphasizes causality, exploring why events happen and how they are interconnected.
• Importance of plot: Forster suggests that a plot requires intelligence and memory from the reader, as it involves understanding the underlying causes and effects within the narrative.

What role does fantasy play in novels according to "Aspects of the Novel"?

• Fantasy's unique demand: Fantasy asks readers to accept the supernatural or the absence of it, requiring an additional adjustment beyond the literal.
• Mythological elements: It often involves mythological or supernatural elements that challenge the reader's perception of reality.
• Purpose of fantasy: Forster suggests that fantasy can illuminate aspects of the human experience that are not accessible through realism alone.

What is the "prophetic" aspect of novels as discussed by E.M. Forster?

• Prophetic tone: Prophecy in novels is characterized by a tone of voice that implies a deeper, often spiritual or universal truth.
• Beyond the literal: It transcends the literal and the logical, aiming to evoke a sense of the infinite or the divine.
• Impact on readers: This aspect requires humility and the suspension of the sense of humor from the reader, as it seeks to convey profound insights.

How does E.M. Forster view the relationship between history and art in "Aspects of the Novel"?

• Art vs. history: Forster argues that while history develops, art stands still, suggesting that the creative process remains constant despite changes in historical context.
• Timelessness of art: He believes that the novel, as an art form, transcends the specificities of its time and place, focusing instead on universal human experiences.
• Creative process: The creative process in art is seen as a constant, unchanging force that shapes the way novels are written and understood.

What are some of the best quotes from "Aspects of the Novel" and what do they mean?

• "Yes—oh, dear, yes—the novel tells a story." This quote emphasizes the fundamental aspect of storytelling in novels, acknowledging its importance while expressing a desire for novels to offer more than just a sequence of events.
• "History develops, Art stands still." Forster highlights the timeless nature of art, suggesting that while historical contexts change, the essence of artistic creation remains constant.
• "The final test of a novel will be our affection for it." This quote underscores the subjective nature of literary appreciation, suggesting that personal connection and emotional response are key to evaluating a novel's success.

How does E.M. Forster address the concept of "pattern" in novels?

• Pattern as unity: Forster describes pattern as an aesthetic aspect that provides unity to a novel, often emerging from the plot.
• Examples of pattern: He uses examples like the hour-glass shape in "Thais" and the grand chain in "Roman Pictures" to illustrate how pattern can enhance a novel's structure.
• Sacrifices for pattern: Forster acknowledges that achieving a rigid pattern may require sacrifices in character development and richness of material.

What is the significance of "rhythm" in novels according to E.M. Forster?

• Rhythm in literature: Forster compares rhythm in novels to musical rhythm, suggesting it can provide beauty and coherence to a narrative.
• Proust's use of rhythm: He cites Marcel Proust's use of a musical phrase as an example of how rhythm can stitch a novel together internally.
• Beyond pattern: Rhythm offers an alternative to rigid pattern, allowing for variation and surprise while maintaining a sense of unity.

How does E.M. Forster's "Aspects of the Novel" influence modern literary criticism?

• Character analysis: Forster's distinction between "flat" and "round" characters has become a foundational concept in character analysis.
• Narrative structure: His exploration of story and plot has influenced how narratives are structured and understood in literary studies.
• Enduring relevance: The book continues to be a key text in literary criticism, offering insights that remain relevant to both scholars and readers interested in the art of the novel.