Pour une classification généalogique des formes narratives de fiction de la période baroque: Fortunes et infortunes de la nouvelle

Abstract

Where, in the novel taxonomy, could the 17th century and 18th century Portuguese novel be placed? It seems that a lack of traditional arguments, due to recent development of the genre, and a need to certify its moral utility in the purpose of creating its literary status had erased, back then, the borders between novel and other similar genres. In its genealogy, the Portuguese novel had created autonomous definitions for encapsulating certain functions of the texts that would not fit a modern definition of the novel, but reflect temporary characteristics.