1. Formal Conventions:
* Narrative Structure: Genres often have typical plot structures. Think of the classic "hero's journey" in fantasy or the rising action, climax, and resolution in mystery.
* Character Archetypes: Genres utilize recurring character types. The stoic detective, the damsel in distress, the wise mentor – these recurring characters help establish genre expectations.
* Setting and Tone: Genres often take place in particular settings (e.g., the Wild West in Westerns) and use specific tone (e.g., dark and suspenseful in horror).
* Language and Style: Genres can be distinguished by their use of language and literary devices. Poetry often employs figurative language, while science fiction might use technical jargon.
2. Thematic Concerns:
* Core Ideas and Values: Genres explore specific themes and values. Romance explores love and relationships, while dystopian fiction addresses societal issues and potential futures.
* Exploration of the Human Condition: Many genres engage with universal questions about identity, purpose, morality, and the nature of reality.
3. Audience Expectations:
* Genre Recognition: Readers and viewers enter a genre with certain expectations. They anticipate specific plot elements, character types, and themes.
* Emotional Response: Genres are designed to evoke particular emotional responses. Comedy aims for laughter, horror aims for fear, and tragedy aims for empathy and reflection.
* Social and Cultural Context: Genres evolve over time and reflect the societal and cultural values of their era.
Think of it this way:
* Structure: The building blocks of a genre, the conventions that shape its form.
* Theme: The heart and soul of a genre, the ideas and values it explores.
* Audience: The intended recipients of a genre, who bring their own expectations and desires.
It's important to note:
* Genre fluidity: Genres are not rigid boxes. They overlap, blend, and evolve constantly.
* Subgenres: Within larger genres, there are often subgenres that refine the conventions further (e.g., cyberpunk within science fiction).
* Authorial innovation: Good writers often push the boundaries of genre while still maintaining the core elements that make it recognizable.
Understanding the structural base of literary genres allows us to appreciate the complexity and dynamism of literature. It helps us to understand how writers work within and against genre conventions to create compelling stories that resonate with their audiences.