Universality:
* Timeless Themes: The novel explores universal human experiences like love, loss, grief, joy, ambition, and the search for meaning. These themes resonate with readers across generations and cultures.
* Relatable Characters: The characters are complex and flawed, with motivations and desires that are understandable and relatable even if their circumstances are different.
* Enduring Ideas: The novel tackles enduring questions about society, morality, politics, and the human condition. These questions continue to be relevant and provoke thought even centuries later.
Literary Merit:
* Strong Writing: The prose is compelling and engaging, with masterful use of language, imagery, and structure. The novel's language and style have a lasting impact on readers.
* Compelling Plot: The plot is well-structured, with a clear beginning, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. The plot keeps readers engaged and wanting to find out what happens next.
* Original and Innovative: The novel breaks new ground in its genre or form, offering fresh perspectives and new ways of telling a story.
Cultural Impact:
* Social Commentary: The novel reflects its time period and its cultural context, offering insights into the societal norms and values of the era. It can be seen as a cultural artifact that provides a window into the past.
* Influence on Other Works: The novel has inspired other writers and artists, leading to a legacy of creative works that build upon its ideas and themes.
* Popular Appeal: The novel has endured because it has captivated readers across generations, becoming a part of popular culture and sparking discussion and debate.
Other factors:
* Historical Significance: The novel is associated with a significant historical event or period, giving it a lasting importance beyond its literary merit.
* Adaptability: The novel has been successfully adapted into other mediums like film, theatre, or television, further expanding its reach and ensuring its continued relevance.
* Personal Connection: The novel holds a special meaning for individuals, resonating with their own experiences and shaping their worldview.
Ultimately, what makes a novel endure is a combination of these factors. A novel that achieves a balance of universality, literary merit, and cultural impact has the best chance of leaving a lasting impression on readers and continuing to be relevant for generations to come.