THE URDU NOVEL: BEGINNING AND EVOLUTION

اردو ناول اوراس کاآغاز وارتقا

Abstract

The Urdu novel is often seen as a reflection of western literary traditions. Prior to the emergence of the novel, narrative forms existed in Urdu literature in form of Dastaan. However, the arrival of the British in the subcontinent brought significant social changes that transformed Indian society. These changes fostered a realistic perspective on life, prompting writers to shift from transcendental and imaginative styles to a focus on realism. The novel, as a genre, arose during the industrial age, a time when scientific advancements challenged many traditional beliefs and superstitions. This era demanded a new literary form that resonated with contemporary realities, moving away from tales populated by supernatural characters, which modern realists found difficult to accept. The aftermath of the 1857 revolution saw the rise of the Sir Syed movement, which deeply influenced Urdu literature. Writers began to abandon the imaginary realm, embracing real-world themes in their works. The Urdu novel thus emerged as a sophisticated form within modern prose, prioritizing actual events and societal issues over fictional narratives. As a result, the subject matter of the novel became as expansive as life itself, encompassing history, society, ethics, economy, politics, psychology, and science. This breadth allows the novelist to explore various aspects of human existence while adhering to the technical requirements of the genre. This article provides a concise yet comprehensive overview of the compositional elements of the Urdu novel, its origins, evolution, and the thematic developments across different periods.

Keywords: Periods of the Urdu novel, effects of Partition on the Urdu novel, the Fall of East Pakistan and its impact, modern perspectives on the novel, historical and detective fiction.