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Genre
Explanation and Analysis:
My Brilliant Career arguably belongs to several literary genres. First, it’s a bildungsroman, a genre that chronicles a protagonist's growth from youth to adulthood. The novel follows Sybylla Melvyn's journey of self-discovery, her difficult family obligations, and her romantic escapades. As the reader learns about these elements of her life, Franklin focuses on capturing Sybylla's coming-of-age experiences, personal development, and endless quest for independence. Sybylla’s evolution as a person, her aspirations, and the challenges she faces are central to the plot. So too are the restrictions placed on her by the society in which she lives.
My Brilliant Career might also be categorized as autobiographical fiction. The novel draws heavily from Miles Franklin's personal experiences and perspectives, mirroring her own upbringing in rural Australia. Elements of the author’s own life appear almost unchanged in the story, which was part of the reason this book received such an explosive response from its first readers. By inserting a voice like her own, and portraying experiences very much like her own, Franklin makes this book a compelling blend of fact and fiction.
Lastly, the novel belongs to the genre of Australian National Literature. This kind of fiction is both idealistic and realistic. It tries to give an honest portrayal of early 20th-century rural Australian life, while also emphasizing the ideal that the Australian people are persevering, hardworking, and always able to find the humor in any situation. The unique and developing culture, customs, and dialect of Australia are very important elements of this genre.
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