Early Romances: Lengthy
descriptions, incidental stories not
related to the main action, subject matter based on history and legend; the hero is a gallant
knight who accomplishes extraordinary adventures; lovers
must overcome many obstacles to be reunited in the
end; many were roman à clefs.
A. Honoré d’Urfé
(1568-1625): Astrée--The first French
novel; 5 vols., 100 chapters, 45 incidental stories;
a pastoral romance.
B. Gautier de la
Calprenède (1609-1663): Cassandra, 10
vols.
C. Georges
& Madeline de Scudéry: Heroic novels.