This question is based on General Literary Principles
What does the protagonist do in a picaresque novel?
Answer Details
In a picaresque novel, the protagonist typically embarks on a journey of some sort. Picaresque novels are a genre of fiction that originated in Spain in the 16th century and typically feature a rogue or anti-hero as the main character. These novels often follow the adventures of the protagonist as he travels from place to place, encountering a variety of people and situations along the way.
The term "picaresque" comes from the Spanish word "picaro," which means "rogue" or "rascal." The protagonist in a picaresque novel is often a lower-class individual who engages in petty theft, deception, and other unsavory activities in order to survive. The novel may be episodic in nature, with each chapter or section detailing a different adventure or encounter.
While the protagonist in a picaresque novel may slow down the narration at times to provide detailed descriptions or reflections on his experiences, he does not typically draw illustrative pictures or become an artist. The focus is on the character's journey and the situations he finds himself in, rather than on any particular artistic or creative pursuits.
In summary, the protagonist in a picaresque novel typically embarks on a journey and engages in various adventures and encounters along the way.