The English Novel in the Time of Shakespeare

"The English Novel in the Time of Shakespeare" by J. J. Jusserand is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work delves into the evolution of the English novel during the Renaissance and Shakespeare's era, examining the contributions of early novelists and how their works paved the way for modern fiction. The author showcases the often-overlooked figures alongside the iconic Shakespeare, highlighting the literary landscape of the time and how these writers influenced contemporary literature. The opening of the book establishes its purpose by discussing the origins of the English novel, emphasizing the context of Shakespeare's time. It explores the historical shifts that allowed novel writing to emerge as a significant literary form, sparked by the convergence of different cultures following the Norman Conquest. Jusserand also introduces a variety of early novelists, such as Nash and Greene, and hints at the literary dynamics of Elizabethan society. The text sets up a framework for the deeper explorations of these writers’ influences and contributions as the chapters unfold, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of how the novel genre began to take shape.