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GATE 2024 XH2 (English) – Question 65

History of English Literature and Literary Studies · Intersections of literature with political, social and intellectual movements · 2 marks · Multiple select

Which factor(s) led to the rise and popularity of the novel in England?

  1. The rise of literacy.
  2. The spread of printing presses throughout England.
  3. The migration of large numbers of writers and intellectuals from Italy.
  4. The rise of the bourgeoisie.

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Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: (A) The rise of literacy.; (B) The spread of printing presses throughout England.; (D) The rise of the bourgeoisie.

Explanation

Ian Watt's The Rise of the Novel links the novel to a growing reading public (literacy), cheap printing, and the new middle class. Migration from Italy is not among the causes.