Burney's Evelina

Definition

Burney's Evelina is a novel published in 1778 by Frances Burney that follows the life and experiences of a young woman named Evelina Anville as she navigates society and her own identity. This work is significant as it embodies the transition from Neoclassicism, with its focus on reason and formality, to Sentimentalism, which emphasizes emotion, individual experience, and the moral implications of social interactions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Evelina is presented through an epistolary format, consisting of letters that Evelina writes to her friend, allowing readers to gain insight into her thoughts and feelings.
2. The novel addresses themes such as social class, gender expectations, and the importance of personal integrity, reflecting the changing attitudes of the time.
3. Frances Burney's portrayal of Evelina's struggles in society reveals the limitations placed on women in the 18th century while also advocating for women's rights and agency.
4. Evelina's character development throughout the novel symbolizes the shift toward emotional authenticity and personal growth valued in Sentimentalism.
5. The popularity of Evelina helped pave the way for later female authors in the 19th century, influencing the development of the novel as a literary form.

Review Questions

• How does Burney's Evelina illustrate the transition from Neoclassicism to Sentimentalism?
  • Burney's Evelina showcases this transition through its focus on emotional depth and personal experiences over strict adherence to rationality and formality typical of Neoclassicism. The novel highlights Evelina’s inner thoughts and feelings as she navigates societal expectations, which is a hallmark of Sentimentalism. This shift reflects a broader cultural movement towards valuing individual emotion and moral consideration in literature.
• Discuss how the epistolary format of Evelina contributes to the reader's understanding of social dynamics in 18th-century England.
  • The epistolary format of Evelina allows readers to engage intimately with Evelina's thoughts and feelings, enhancing their understanding of her experiences in a rigidly structured society. Through her letters, readers witness her interactions with various social classes and characters, revealing the complexities of gender roles and societal expectations. This format not only personalizes her journey but also critiques the social norms that confine women during this era.
• Evaluate how Frances Burney's portrayal of Evelina's character challenges contemporary views on women's roles in society.
  • Frances Burney’s portrayal of Evelina challenges contemporary views by presenting her as a complex character who seeks autonomy while grappling with societal expectations. As Evelina faces dilemmas that test her values and integrity, she embodies a growing awareness of women's rights and individuality. By showcasing her struggles against societal constraints, Burney not only critiques these limitations but also advocates for a reevaluation of women's roles in society, paving the way for future feminist discourse in literature.

Related terms

Sentimentalism: A literary movement that emerged in the 18th century focusing on emotional expression and the moral value of feelings, often contrasting with the rationality emphasized by Neoclassicism.

Epistolary Novel: A genre of literature written as a series of documents, often letters or diary entries, which provides a personal and intimate perspective on the characters' thoughts and experiences.

Social Critique: An analysis of social structures and norms, often highlighting issues such as class disparity, gender roles, and moral values within society.