A literary genre, it scrutinizes the customs, behaviors, and values of a specific social group, often within a restricted setting. The narrative emphasizes social conventions, decorum, and the intricate relationships between characters within that society. Dialogue and detailed descriptions of social interactions are prominent features. An instance includes Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, which offers a detailed portrayal of the social expectations and courtship rituals of the English gentry during the Regency era.
This type of narrative offers valuable insights into the social structures and moral codes of past societies. By examining the characters’ adherence to or deviation from social norms, it provides a commentary on the values and beliefs of the time. Historically, such narratives have served as both a reflection of and a critique of societal norms, influencing social discourse and understanding.
