Romantic Novels:
* Gothic Novels: Still popular, but with a shift from the macabre to the psychological, often exploring themes of madness, obsession, and the supernatural. Examples: Mary Shelley's *Frankenstein* (1818), although written earlier, remained influential.
* Historical Novels: This genre rose in popularity, focusing on dramatic historical events and colorful characters. Examples: Sir Walter Scott's *Ivanhoe* (1820), *The Bride of Lammermoor* (1819).
* Sentimental Novels: Emphasizing emotions and morality, often exploring the lives of ordinary people and their struggles. Examples: Susan Ferrier's *Marriage* (1818), *Destiny* (1831).
Social Commentary and Realism:
* Social Novels: Emerging from the growing awareness of social injustices, these novels tackled themes of poverty, class inequality, and the plight of the working class. Examples: Charles Dickens' *Oliver Twist* (1837), *Nicholas Nickleby* (1838-39).
* Realist Novels: These novels aimed to portray life as it truly was, focusing on everyday experiences and characters. Examples: Honoré de Balzac's *Le Père Goriot* (1835), *Eugénie Grandet* (1833).
Other Genres:
* Adventure Novels: These novels featured thrilling escapades, often set in exotic locations. Examples: James Fenimore Cooper's *The Last of the Mohicans* (1826), *The Pathfinder* (1840).
* Sea Novels: Exploring the lives of sailors and maritime adventures. Examples: Joseph Conrad's *The Nigger of the "Narcissus"* (1897), *Lord Jim* (1900).
Key Authors of the 1830s:
* Charles Dickens: A master of social realism, his novels exposed the plight of the poor and criticized social injustices.
* William Makepeace Thackeray: Known for his satirical wit, his novels often dealt with themes of social ambition and moral hypocrisy.
* Emily Brontë: Her gothic novel *Wuthering Heights* (1847) explored themes of passion, revenge, and the dark side of human nature.
* Charlotte Brontë: *Jane Eyre* (1847) is a classic of Victorian literature, focusing on a strong female protagonist and themes of love and independence.
Note: The popularity of specific novels and genres varied across regions and social groups.
By the 1830s, the novel had become a significant form of literary expression, reflecting both the Romantic and the emerging Realist movements. These novels offered readers not only entertainment but also social commentary and exploration of the human condition.