SECTION ONE
INTRODUCTION
One useful way of reading any work of art is to pay attention to the techniques used in a particular literary work.
SECTION TWO
TECHNIQUES OF READING A NOVEL
Here are the techniques to consider when reading a novel:
(1) Point of view
This will help you to identify the person or voice which tells the story. It will help you to understand whether the author has used a first-person, third-person, third-person limited, or third-person omniscient point of view.
(2) Narrative technique
This helps the reader of the story to identify the narrative techniques like straightforward narrative technique, flashback, and foreshadowing. Understanding the narrative techniques used will help you to connect the story's events easily and clearly while reading.
(3) Plot
The plot is what happens in the novel. Understanding the events of the novel will helps you to relate the events of the story well.
(4) Setting
As a reader, you need to identify the place and time in which the novel is set. The setting helps the reader to visualize the atmosphere, values, customs, and life of the particular place and time.
(5) Characterization
Characters are the people in the novel. They are the ones who make the story moves on. They are the ones who take action and move the events of the story. Thus, identifying the characters is a great step to the the full understanding of the story.
(6) Language
Identify and comment whether the language used is simple or complex. Also, discuss the figures of speech used in the novel.
(7) Motif
Motif refers to the mostly occurring concepts, ideas, or themes in the story. By paying attention to this aspect, you can find reading novels easy and understandable.
(8) Theme
The theme is the general topic or idea in the book. It is what the novel implies and we should think about it. For example, the book may be written to address the central theme of Colonialism, but the various themes or ideas like torture, forced labour, low wages, and land alienation can also be implied by the author to the reader.
CONCLUSION
These are not only techniques for reading novels. Other reading techniques are out there which are worth applying as well. Whatever reading techniques you can use, make sure you meet the two primary purposes of reading: reading for pleasure and reading for knowledge.
SECTION THREE
LE TEST 09: HOW TO READ A NOVEL
[1] Dichotomise between:
(a) Point of view and narrative technique
(b) Image and symbol
(c) Theme and motif
(d) Plot and setting
[2] Explain any five ways you can use to identify the characters of the novel.
[3] What are the techniques of reading novels? (5 points)
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