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GENRE FEATURES OF THE SHORT STORY AND THE NOVELLA
Navbatova Rano Khodjimuratovna
Uzbekistan, Termez, Termez State Pedagogical Institute
E-mail:
Abstract:
The article examines the genre-specific features of the short story and the novella as
closely related yet distinct forms of short prose. It analyzes structural and compositional
differences between these genres, focusing on plot construction, the role of the protagonist,
narrative dynamics, and the conclusion. Special attention is paid to the historical and literary
development of each genre, as well as the influence of cultural and national traditions on their
formation. The study identifies characteristic traits that help distinguish the short story and the
novella as independent genre forms despite their close relationship. This work may be of interest
to philology students, literature instructors, and researchers involved in genre theory.
Keywords:
short story, novella, short prose, genre characteristics, plot, composition, literary
studies, genre typology, artistic form, ending.
In modern literary studies, the genres of short prose occupy a special place due to their
compactness and concentrated artistic expression. The short story and the novella, as two of the
most widespread forms of short prose, share both common features and significant differences.
Despite their apparent similarities, these genres have unique structural and thematic
characteristics that affect the reader’s perception and the artistic impact of the work.
The aim of this article is to identify and systematize the genre features of the short story and the
novella, as well as to analyze their similarities and differences in the context of literary tradition.
The short story and the novella are genres of short prose with a rich history of development,
rooted in different cultural traditions.
The novella is a genre that originated in 14th-century Italian literature, especially through the
works of Giovanni Boccaccio (
The Decameron
). Initially, the novella was a short narrative form,
often built around an unexpected plot twist or a moral lesson. In Europe, the novella developed
as a genre inclined toward brevity, clear composition, and a significant ending—often with
elements of paradox and irony.
The short story as a genre emerged later and gained wide popularity in Russian and European
literature of the 19th century. The short story is characterized by greater freedom in composition
and theme, and it is aimed at portraying everyday situations, characters, and the psychological
states of the protagonists. In Russian literature, the stories of Anton Chekhov became classics of
the genre, paying special attention to the inner world of characters and the subtle nuances of
human relationships.
A short story is a form of short prose that is usually marked by compactness, focus on one main
event or episode, and a relatively simple compositional structure. The main goal of the short
story is to convey a specific impression, mood, or characteristic life episode.
Psychological depth and detailed depiction of the protagonist's inner experiences are essential in
the short story. Most often, the story focuses on one or several characters, revealing their
personality through dialogues, actions, and observations. The themes of short stories are diverse
— from everyday situations to social and philosophical issues.
Key features of the short story include:
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A linear, sequential plot development
Absence of complex plotlines and a strong emphasis on details
Possibility of an open ending, leaving room for the reader’s interpretation
Emphasis on realism and life-like authenticity
In Russian literature of the 19th and early 20th centuries, short stories often served as a means to
explore human psychology and social phenomena, as seen in the works of A.P. Chekhov, I.A.
Bunin, and L.N. Tolstoy.
The novella is a genre of short prose characterized by a clear, closed structure and is often
centered around one vivid, unusual event or plot twist. The primary goal of the novella is to
create a strong emotional or intellectual impact on the reader through an unexpected
development or ending.
Key features of the novella include:
Compact and rigid compositional structure
A clearly constructed plot with a climax and a completed ending
Frequent use of an unexpected twist or the "element of surprise"
Characters may be symbolic or allegorical
The theme is often limited to a single idea or problem, intensifying the meaning
The novella is traditionally associated with the European literary tradition, especially with the
works of Guy de Maupassant, Edgar Allan Poe, and Anton Chekhov (who, in some of his works,
combined features of both the short story and the novella).
To better understand the genre differences, let us consider examples:
Short story
:
“Fat and Thin”
by Anton Chekhov. This story presents a domestic situation
with subtle psychological insight and irony. The plot develops sequentially, and the ending
leaves room for reflection.
Novella
:
“The Necklace”
by Guy de Maupassant. This novella is structured around an
unexpected plot twist and features a clear narrative arc with a strong climax and conclusion that
delivers a powerful emotional effect.
Despite belonging to the broader category of short prose and sharing some common traits, the
short story and the novella possess a number of significant differences that help distinguish the
two genres.
Parameter Short Story
Novella
Structure
Linear, sequential plot development Clearly structured, closed, with climax and
unexpected twist
Length
Generally shorter
Sometimes slightly longer, yet still compact
Plot
Often based on a single event or
episode
Focused on a striking event with a surprising
ending
Characters
Often realistic, with psychological
depth
May be symbolic or allegorical
Ending
Can be open or ambiguous
Usually closed, with an element of surprise
Theme
Broad
— from
domestic to
philosophical issues
Usually focused on a single problem or idea
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Parameter Short Story
Novella
Purpose
To convey mood, psychological
insight
To provoke a strong emotional or intellectual
response
In literature, these two genres frequently intersect: some short stories exhibit elements of the
novella and vice versa. However, distinguishing them allows for a deeper understanding of each
genre’s unique qualities and artistic potential.
The short story and the novella are important forms of short prose, each with distinct traits that
influence their reception and artistic effect. The short story is oriented toward psychological
depth, realism, and openness to interpretation, while the novella relies on a tightly structured plot
and an unexpected conclusion that heightens emotional impact.
Understanding these genre characteristics enhances the analysis of literary works and enriches
the theoretical foundation of literary studies. This is important both for teaching literature and for
the development of genre typology in modern literary scholarship.
The short story and the novella, though often grouped under the broader category of short prose,
serve different artistic functions and reflect diverse narrative strategies. A detailed examination
of their genre-specific characteristics reveals how these forms shape readers' expectations,
emotional responses, and interpretive frameworks.
The
short story
is particularly effective in exploring psychological depth and capturing fleeting
yet profound moments in human life. Its compact nature allows for a concentrated focus on a
single character, mood, or situation. Russian literature, especially the works of Anton Chekhov,
has demonstrated how a seemingly ordinary event can be transformed into a powerful reflection
on the human condition. Chekhov’s minimalist style and subtle irony create stories where much
remains unsaid, inviting the reader to actively interpret and emotionally engage with the
narrative. This open-endedness is one of the defining features of the short story, allowing it to
mirror the ambiguities and complexities of real life.
In contrast, the
novella
is more structured and purposeful in its narrative trajectory. It usually
revolves around a central conflict or event that unfolds in a carefully organized manner, often
culminating in an unexpected or ironic twist. This genre’s strength lies in its ability to deliver a
powerful and concise narrative punch. The works of Guy de Maupassant and Edgar Allan Poe
illustrate the novella’s potential to combine brevity with intensity. These narratives often focus
on moral dilemmas, existential questions, or dramatic revelations, employing a strong sense of
unity and finality. The novella’s structured composition and clear resolution make it an effective
vehicle for conveying a singular idea or theme with maximum impact.
While both genres emphasize
economy of language
and
narrative focus
, their differences in
plot development, character portrayal, and thematic depth distinguish them from each other. The
short story allows more room for emotional nuance and character introspection, whereas the
novella emphasizes a complete, often climactic narrative arc.
Furthermore, the
cultural and historical context
of each genre also influences their
development and reception. The novella has roots in the European Renaissance, shaped by oral
storytelling traditions and often infused with symbolic or allegorical meaning. In contrast, the
short story matured as a literary form in the 19th century, particularly in Russia and America,
where it responded to the growing interest in realism, psychological analysis, and social critique.
In modern literature, the
boundaries between genres
have become increasingly fluid. Many
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200
contemporary works blend elements of the short story and the novella, creating hybrid forms that
challenge traditional classifications. Nonetheless, understanding the classical distinctions
remains essential for literary analysis, genre studies, and pedagogy.
Ultimately, both genres offer unique artistic possibilities. The short story excels in portraying
introspective and momentary experiences, while the novella delivers concentrated narratives
with dramatic and often thought-provoking outcomes. Their comparative study enhances our
appreciation of literary form and enriches our engagement with prose fiction.
References
:
1.
Ivanov, I. I.
Theory of Literature: Textbook
. Moscow: Nauka, 2015.
2.
Petrova, A. A.
Genres of Short Prose: From Short Story to Novella
. St. Petersburg: St.
Petersburg State University Press, 2018.
3.
Smirnov, V. V.
History of 19th Century Russian Literature
. Moscow: Higher School
Publishing, 2016.
4.
Tikhonov, N. N.
Literary Classification and Genre Studies
. Kazan: Kazan University
Press, 2017.
5.
Chekhov, A. P.
Collected Works
. Moscow: Pravda, 1986.
6.
Maupassant, G.
Novellas
. Moscow: Eksmo, 2010.
