Picaresque novel

A picaresque novel is a genre that follows the adventures of a roguish, resourceful protagonist—often an outsider or lower-class character—through a series of loosely connected episodes. These stories highlight their efforts to survive and navigate society, often using wit and cunning. The tone is usually humorous or satirical, emphasizing social critiques. Unlike linear narratives, picaresque novels resemble a collection of vignettes, offering a vivid, often sharply realistic depiction of everyday life and societal flaws. Classic examples include "The Adventures of Lazarillo de Tormes" and "Don Quixote," illustrating the blend of humor, critique, and episodic storytelling.