Memory and Narrative at the Origin of the Novel: Three studies, from Chretien de Troyes to Proust

This book explores the structural and formal paths of the "novelistic machine" through three exemplary cases: the "name of the novel at the origins of the literary genre," the "bookform," and the "literary topos of the 'dreaming incipit." It will be of interest to students and scholars of medieval literature, the history of the novel, and philology.

Format: Hardback
Length: 112 pages
Publication date: 14 August 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate tapestry of the novel as a textual genre and a narrative form that has become a hallmark of Western literature. Its origins trace back to the vernacular cultures of the twelfth and thirteenth centuries, where the novel emerged as a unique literary expression. What sets the novel apart is its adoption of stylistic procedures to establish a new narrative framework that defies direct comparison with the preceding literary tradition. As a "textual machine," the novel frequently employs techniques to manipulate time and duration, creating a profound connection between history, individual memory, and the potential for future narratives.

To explore the structural and formal pathways of the "novelistic machine," this book presents three exemplary cases. The first case examines the genesis of the novel as a literary genre, with the invention of the "novelistic technique" by Chrétien de Troyes in the twelfth century. The second case delves into the book form, specifically focusing on the "book of novels" as a tangible and material object that encapsulates the narrative text and immerses itself within the fictional universe. The third case explores the literary topos of the "dreaming incipit," tracing its long history from the Roman de la rose to Proust.

This book holds immense value for students and scholars of medieval literature, the history of the novel, and philology. It offers a deep understanding of the novel's evolution, its structural components, and its profound impact on the literary landscape. By examining these three exemplary cases, readers gain a comprehensive perspective on the novel's rich tapestry and its enduring significance in shaping the narrative traditions of Western culture.

Weight: 385g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032122229