The History of English Novel by Ernest A. Baker

The History of English Novel
by Ernest A. Baker
(Published by Barnes & Noble, 1957 Edition, 336 Pages)

The History of English Novel by Ernest A. Baker is a scholarly yet accessible study of how English fiction evolved over the centuries. Covering the period from the early prose narratives to the mid-20th century, this book delves into the themes, styles, and social contexts that shaped the English novel.

Baker provides in-depth discussions of significant authors, examining their contributions to the literary canon. The book covers Daniel Defoe’s realism, Jane Austen’s social commentary, the emotional depth of the Brontës, Dickens’ critique of industrial society, and the psychological depth of modernist writers like Virginia Woolf and James Joyce. It also discusses how historical events, such as the Industrial Revolution and the World Wars, influenced novel-writing.

A must-read for literature lovers, this book is both informative and engaging, making it an ideal companion for those interested in the history of storytelling in English literature.

• Traces the history of the English novel, from its early beginnings to modern storytelling techniques.
• Analyzes the works of major authors like Daniel Defoe, Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, Thomas Hardy, and more.
• Explores literary movements, including Romanticism, Realism, and Modernism.
• Discusses the cultural and historical influences shaping English fiction.
• A valuable reference for students, researchers, and literary enthusiasts.