Examining how the writer uses character, structure, language and themes. Learn it step by step →
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
MalthusianMalthus's idea that population grows faster than food supply, used to argue against helping the poor.
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
What your exam board covers
Where The 19th Century Novel sits in each exam board's specification. Tap a board to see what it lists.
EdexcelComponent 2 — 19th-century novel and poetry since 1789Spec 1ET0
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:
