Structural elements of a novel

[isadora66]

What exactly does it mean when I'm to look for structural elements in a novel? I'm supposed to investigate the importance of a theme as a structural element. Does that mean how it affects the structure of the novel? Or is it, as I'm hoping, all elements it does affect? Do things like symbols, tone, characterization and so on go under the term "structural element"?

Thanks :)

[kelby_lake]

What exactly does it mean when I'm to look for structural elements in a novel? I'm supposed to investigate the importance of a theme as a structural element. Does that mean how it affects the structure of the novel? Or is it, as I'm hoping, all elements it does affect? Do things like symbols, tone, characterization and so on go under the term "structural element"?

Thanks :)

Looking at structure of a novel:

- Identify what the narrative mode is (first person POV, third omniscient POV, etc.) And the tone.

- Is it separated into parts? Does this have a relevance? (for example, Tess of The D'Urbervilles is separated into 7 books, I think, each title being relevant to her journey)

- Motifs. These are recurring images, such as the eyes in King Lear. Work out what these symbolise. If you identify eyes as a motif, it adds another layer to Gloucester's blinding and it explains the relevance of certain parts of the story.

- How does the plot progress? Why does X happen in Chapter 6, not Chapter 26?

In my opinion, looking at the structure of a novel is studying the novel in a critical fashion, studying why the writer has made certain choices in creating this novel.

As for theme as a structural element, you could talk about how it connects events, adds another dimension...I can't think of more right now but I'm sure you'll find something :)