Belonging and Narrative - A Theory of the American Novel

The novel's popularity in the past three centuries is due to its ability to provide narrative frames and formulas that give meaning and mooring to people's lives, and Laura Bieger's book explores the significance and importance of home in this process.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 182 pages
Publication date: 08 December 2021
Publisher: Transcript Verlag

The novel has experienced a remarkable surge in popularity over the past three centuries, driven by various factors. One significant contributor to this trend has been the American novel, which has played a crucial role in shaping the literary landscape. In her book "The Novel and the World," Laura Bieger explores the reasons behind the novel's enduring appeal and its contribution to this phenomenon.

According to Bieger, the novel has become a vital tool for modern individuals seeking to make sense of their lives. Drawing on phenomenological hermeneutics, human geography, and social psychology, she argues that belonging is not a fixed or predetermined concept; rather, it is continuously produced through narrative. This perspective challenges the prevailing notion that metaphors of movement and destabilization dominate our understanding of the world. Instead, Bieger emphasizes the importance and significance of home, recognizing it as a central element in shaping our sense of self and place.

In her exploration of the novel's role in place-making, Bieger challenges the notion that narrative is merely a mechanism of ideology. Instead, she views narrative as a practical component of dwelling in the world. The novel, in particular, emerges as a primary place-making agent, as it allows individuals to create and inhabit fictional worlds that reflect their own experiences and perspectives. Through the narrative process, readers can explore different environments, cultures, and societies, gaining a deeper understanding of the world and their place within it.

The American novel has played a significant role in shaping the narrative landscape and contributing to the novel's popularity. American authors have been pioneers in exploring new forms of storytelling, experimenting with different genres and styles. From the realism of Mark Twain's "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" to the psychological depth of F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby," American novels have pushed the boundaries of literary expression.

Moreover, American novels have been particularly adept at addressing the concerns and experiences of modern society. They have explored themes such as identity, race, gender, class, and sexuality, providing a platform for marginalized voices and challenging dominant narratives. This has resonated with readers who seek to understand and engage with the complex social and political issues of their time.

In conclusion, the novel's popularity in the past three centuries can be attributed to its ability to provide a means of understanding and navigating the world. The American novel, in particular, has played a crucial role in shaping the literary landscape and contributing to the novel's enduring appeal. Through its exploration of narrative, place, and identity, the novel offers readers a means of gaining a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the world. As the novel continues to evolve and adapt to the changing social and cultural landscape, it remains a vital tool for individuals seeking to make sense of their lives and engage with the world around them.

Weight: 666g
Dimension: 226 x 147 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783837646009