Structure:
* Multiple Points of View: The story unfolds through the eyes of different characters, each communicating with someone else.
* Chronological Progression: While not always linear, the story usually progresses chronologically based on the dates or timestamps of the letters/entries.
* Limited Perspective: Each character's perspective is limited to their own experiences and understanding. This can create suspense and intrigue as readers piece together the full story.
Visual Appearance:
* Headings: Each letter or entry will typically have a heading indicating the sender, recipient, and date.
* Salutations and Closings: Formal or informal greetings and farewells will mark the beginning and end of each communication.
* Dialogue: Direct dialogue is often included within letters, reflecting conversations between characters.
* Varying Length and Style: Letters and entries can vary in length and style, reflecting the individual personalities and circumstances of the writers.
Examples:
* "Dracula" by Bram Stoker: The story unfolds through diary entries, letters, and telegrams from various characters.
* "The Color Purple" by Alice Walker: Told through letters written by Celie, the novel explores themes of racism, sexism, and female empowerment.
* "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society" by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows: Letters exchanged between a writer and the members of a book club on the island of Guernsey during World War II reveal the impact of the war on their lives.
Overall, a novel written in epistolary form creates a unique and intimate reading experience, allowing readers to engage with the characters' thoughts and emotions in a more direct and personal way.