An Estimate of the Value and Influence of Works of Fiction in Modern Times
Page 6
Thus it happens that the struggle between the poetry of the heart andthe opposing prose of outward circumstances is for the novel one of thecommonest and most suitable conflicts. This struggle may end comically,or tragically, or in a reconciliation of the opposing forces. In thelast case the characters who at first oppose the ordinary world-ordermay, by learning to recognize the true and abiding elements in it,become reconciled to the existing circumstances, and take an active partin them; or, on the other hand, they may strip off the prosaic hull fromdeed and accomplishment, and thus put in the place of the original prosea reality which is on intimate and friendly terms with beauty and art.
As far as the range of representation is concerned, the true novel, likethe epic, requires a complete world and a complete view of life, themany-sided materials and relationships of which exhibit themselves inthe particular action that is the nucleus of the whole. As to details ofconception and development, however, the author must be allowed greatliberty, for it is difficult to bring the prose of real life into therepresentation without sticking fast in the prosaic andcommonplace.--Hegel, 'Aesthetik.' 3. Thl., Kap. III. Abt. 3., S.394-396.
FOOTNOTE:
[23] In simpler terms: The novel, being a form of epic, should have allthe characteristics of poetry. But this is impossible because it iscompelled to work in the humble field of prose. Nevertheless, by askilful use of description, narration, and dramatic situation, it causesa poetic oasis to spring up in the desert of prose, and so wins backsome of its poetical rights.