The 19th Century Novel is a core part of GCSE English Literature. Revise the key concepts and common mistakes below, then lock them in with the free games.
Key concepts
AllegoryStory where every element carries a deeper meaning
DidacticDesigned to teach a moral lesson
MicrocosmA small world standing for a bigger one
Social mobilityMovement between social classes
MalthusianThe view the poor are a burden to society
CatalystPerson or event that triggers change
Pathetic fallacyWeather reflects a character's emotions
SymbolismUsing objects to represent ideas
Foil characterA contrast that highlights another character
CaricatureExaggerated character used for satire
DoppelgangerA double or alter ego of a character
WorkhouseGrim institution for the Victorian poor
Victorian eraReign of Queen Victoria, 1837-1901
Industrial RevolutionRapid shift to factories and machines
Common mistakes to avoid
Questions where students often pick the tempting wrong answer — make sure you know the right one:
What does analysing a novel involve?✗ Summarising the plot of the story. ✓ Examining how the writer uses character, structure, language and themes.
Is the narrator always honest and the same as the author?✗ Yes, the narrator always tells the truth and is the author. ✓ No — narrators can be unreliable and are distinct from the author.
Is setting just where a story happens?✗ Yes, setting is only background detail. ✓ No — it can build atmosphere, reflect themes and shape character.
Practise The 19th Century Novel — free games
Test yourself with these quick revision games for this topic:
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