What is the definition of episolary novel?

An epistolary novel is a novel written entirely or primarily in the form of letters. These letters are typically written by the characters themselves, offering a personal and often intimate view of events and characters.

Here are some key characteristics of epistolary novels:

* Narrative through letters: The story unfolds through the exchange of letters between characters.

* Intimate perspective: The letters provide a direct and personal view of the characters' thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

* Unreliable narrators: Each letter writer presents a subjective perspective, potentially biased or incomplete.

* Multiple voices: Often, the novel features letters from several different characters, offering a multifaceted perspective on the story.

* Chronological structure: Typically, the letters are arranged chronologically, creating a sense of real-time progression.

* Realism and immediacy: The format lends itself to a sense of immediacy and realism, as readers experience events through the eyes of the characters.

Famous examples of epistolary novels:

* "Pamela" by Samuel Richardson

* "The Sorrows of Young Werther" by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

* "Dracula" by Bram Stoker

* "The Color Purple" by Alice Walker

* "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" by Stephen Chbosky

While epistolary novels were particularly popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, the format continues to be used in modern literature. It offers a unique and compelling way to tell stories, engaging readers in the characters' emotional journeys and offering a distinct perspective on the world.