Seregina M. A.

The Sentimentalism of W. Godwin’s Early Novels P.117-127.

UDC 821.111-31.09«17»

DOI 10.37724/RSU.2021.70.1.012

Abstract. The article treats an English writer, journalist and philosopher William Godwin’s previously underinvestigated novels “Damon and Delia”, “Imogen”, and “Italian Letters”. The aim of the research is to explore the sentimental aspects lying at the basis of the novels and to assess their aesthetic value. The analysis of W. Godwin’s early works enables one to trace in them some features characteristic of sentimental novels, such as prevalence of sentiment over common sense, fascination with nature, admiration for exquisite beauty, appreciation of art and sentimental poetry. All these characteristics account for the choice of personages and narrative devices. W. Godwin’s works abound with sentimentalism. The writer employs both traditional and unique stylistic devices, whose essence lies in contrast as the main means of affecting the reader. The author of the article concludes that W. Godwin’s early works bear witness to the evolution of W. Godwin’s writing style and to his search of literary devices which enable him to express his philosophical and political ideas. Therefore, the author of the article underlines that, contrary to widespread opinion, W. Godwin’s early works are not devoid of philosophical ideas. The author maintains that, judging by their genre characteristics, the analyzed novels can be classified as sentimental ones. The research can be used for further analysis of W. Godwin’s early novels and for the creation of a wider panorama of his works.

Keywords: “Damon and Delia”, “Imogen”, “Italian Letters”, sentimentalism, Williamm Godwin.

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