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The English novel which was destined to live, in fact out live all other forms of literature, whether poetry or drama, and shine even today on the horizon of English literature as a bright star, actually rose and greatly developed in the 18th century. The novel despite the presence of great poetical works and the best periodical essays stands out in this century not only as the most popular but also the most enduring medium. To examine critically the sudden rise of the novel in this age it is important to understand the social background and circumstances which helped to make it the most thriving literary form of the 18th century. The biggest and the most important factor which moulded the shape of this century and helped immensely in the breakup with the restoration age was the rise of the middle classes. With the unprecedented rise in trade and commerce many small businessmen were rapidly entering the ranks of the wealthy, aristocratic, English society and with an enormous rise in their number, were also being accepted in the circles of the genteel English society. The face of the society during that era was rapidly changing. London at this time became the sole hub of not only all artistic and cultural activities but also al