Epistolary Novels and Their Techniques

The video explores the history and evolution of the epistolary novel, a form of fiction written as letters or documents. It highlights early examples by Aphra Behn and the popularization by Samuel Richardson, who added realism and psychological depth. The form allowed for multiple perspectives, as seen in Tobias Smollett's work. Although it fell out of favor in the 19th century, modern adaptations include Bram Stoker's 'Dracula' and contemporary novels using emails and texts. The epistolary form has also influenced film, adding realism and suspense.

What is an epistolary novel?

• A novel written in the form of letters or documents

• A novel that is entirely fictional

• A novel based on historical events

• A novel with multiple narrators

Which novel is considered the first English epistolary novel?

• Pamela

• Love Letters Between a Nobleman and His Sister

• The History of Emily Montague

• Clarissa

What was significant about Aphra Behn's use of letters in her novel?

• It was the longest novel of its time

• It was based on real letters

• It added realism and made readers feel part of a private correspondence

• It was the first novel to use letters

What is the full title of Samuel Richardson's 'Pamela'?

• Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded, in a Series of Epistles

• Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded, in a Series of Letters

• Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded, in a Series of Correspondences

• Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded, in a Series of Familiar Letters from a Beautiful Young Damsel to Her Parents

What narrative technique did Samuel Richardson perfect in his novels?

• Third-person omniscient

• Stream of consciousness

• First-person narrative

• Writing to the moment

Which two novels are considered the first Canadian and American novels?

• The History of Emily Montague and The Power of Sympathy

• Pamela and Clarissa

• Love Letters Between a Nobleman and His Sister and The Expedition of Humphrey Clinker

• Dracula and The Screwtape Letters

What is unique about Tobias Smollett's 'The Expedition of Humphrey Clinker'?

• It is written entirely in diary entries

• It is the first epistolary novel

• It includes letters from multiple characters with different perspectives

• It features only one letter writer

How does 'The Expedition of Humphrey Clinker' resolve the family's conflicts?

• By visiting the spa town of Bath

• By writing more letters

• By leaving England for Scotland

• By returning to their Welsh estate

What makes Bram Stoker's 'Dracula' a unique epistolary novel?

• It includes a variety of documents and recordings

• It is the first Gothic novel

• It uses only letters

• It is written in real-time

Which modern novel includes a chapter written entirely in PowerPoint slides?

• The Screwtape Letters

• Bridget Jones's Diary

• A Visit from the Goon Squad

• Dear Committee Members