Novella

A novella is a written, fictional, prose narrative that is longer than a short story but shorter than a novel. The English word "novella" derives from the Italian "novella", feminine of "novello", which means "new". The novella is a common literary genre in several European languages.

Characteristics

A novella is typically between 20,000 and 40,000 words, though definitions vary. It is longer than a short story but shorter than a novel. The novella often focuses on a single incident or a series of linked incidents, with a single plot and a limited number of characters. Unlike a novel, a novella does not have the luxury of extensive subplots or a large cast of characters.

Structure

The structure of a novella is often more focused and concise than that of a novel. It usually has a clear beginning, middle, and end, with a strong narrative arc. The novella's brevity allows for a more intense and concentrated exploration of its themes and characters.

Themes

Novellas often explore themes of personal and social significance, such as identity, morality, and human relationships. Due to their length, novellas can delve deeply into these themes without the need for extensive background or exposition.

History

The novella has a rich history, with roots in the early Renaissance. The form became particularly popular in the 19th century, with authors such as Henry James, Leo Tolstoy, and Franz Kafka contributing to its development.

Renaissance Origins

The novella originated in Italy during the Renaissance, with works such as Giovanni Boccaccio's "The Decameron". These early novellas were often framed as part of a larger collection of stories.

19th Century

In the 19th century, the novella became a popular form for exploring complex social and psychological themes. Authors such as Fyodor Dostoevsky and Herman Melville used the novella to experiment with narrative form and style.

20th Century and Beyond

The 20th century saw the novella continue to evolve, with authors such as Albert Camus and George Orwell using the form to address contemporary issues. The novella remains a popular form for writers seeking to explore complex themes in a concise format.

Notable Examples

Some notable novellas include:

• "Heart of Darkness" by Joseph Conrad
• "The Metamorphosis" by Franz Kafka
• "Animal Farm" by George Orwell
• "The Old Man and the Sea" by Ernest Hemingway

Also see

• Short story
• Novel
• Literary genre
• Fiction