The Canadian Novel of the Confederation Period (1860–1900)

Introduction

The Confederation era was a bold time for the book. It captured the dreams of a rising new nation. Novelists used the page to explore our deep roots. They wanted to move past the old colonial shadows. Therefore, they wrote about the rugged north and heroes. The novel was a place for political and social talk. It gave the people a mirror to see themselves. This era was the dawn of our own art. Thus, the Canadian identity in fiction became vital. We can still feel its power and grit today. It is the bedrock of the modern Canadian page. Consequently, writers found a brand new way to speak. Furthermore, they mapped the soul of the silent woods. Accordingly, a national literature rose from the cold soil. Subsequently, the stories traveled far across the deep sea. Hence, the world noticed the birth of Canada.

1. Dominion

Canada became a Dominion with a very unique identity. Therefore, novels focused on the role of the state. Consequently, the stories often had a very formal tone. Furthermore, they respected the authority of the new crown. Thus, the concept of the Dominion was very central. Moreover, it showed that we were part of something. Similarly, it balanced local pride with imperial loyalty. In addition, this theme resonated with the urban crowds. Hence, the Canadian identity in fiction grew with the government. Subsequently, the books became more complex and quite deep. Therefore, they explored what it meant to be Canadian. Consequently, the Dominion was a source of great inspiration. Furthermore, it provided a framework for the national myth. Moreover, it was a time of building and growth. Thus, the novel reflected the structure of the land.

2. Settlement

Fiction often told the story of the lonely settler. Therefore, the novel was a place for the pioneer struggle. Consequently, it focused on the fight against the wild. Furthermore, it showed the cost of building a new home. Thus, settlement was a very dramatic and real theme. Moreover, it resonated with the people who lived it then. Similarly, it turned the work of the axe into art. In addition, this gave the prose a very local flavor. Hence, it was not just a copy of the old world. Subsequently, it helped people feel proud of their hard toil. Therefore, the book was a mirror of the frontier life. Consequently, it was a very rugged and honest kind of story. Furthermore, it was full of grit and a sense of hope. Moreover, it showed the beauty of the growing land. Thus, the Canadian identity in fiction found its home.

3. Frontier

The frontier was a place of great danger and myth. Therefore, novelists used it as a very dramatic setting. Consequently, the books were full of woods and wild snow. Furthermore, they explored the meeting of two different cultures. Thus, the frontier was the edge of the known world. Moreover, it was a space for the spirit to grow. Similarly, it was a theme that defined the Canadian soul. In addition, this wildness was a source of unique beauty. Hence, the novel was very different from the European one. Subsequently, the frontier was mapped by the local books. Therefore, it was a place of adventure and deep fear. Consequently, it shaped the way the story felt to all. Furthermore, it was very rugged and quite unpredictable. Moreover, it was a very vast and silent character. Thus, the novel captured the wild heart.

4. Garrison

The garrison was a wall against the vast wild woods. Therefore, characters often felt trapped inside their small towns. Consequently, the novel focused on the safety of the group. Furthermore, it showed the fear of the unknown outside world. Thus, the garrison was a very powerful social symbol. Moreover, it protected the old values of the distant home. Similarly, it created a sense of order in the chaos. In addition, this theme defined the Canadian identity in fiction. Hence, the stories were often about rules and strict laws. Subsequently, the walls became a part of the national mind. Therefore, the novel explored the tension of the small space. Consequently, it was a very psychological and deep theme. Furthermore, it reflected the isolation of the early northern life. Moreover, it was a very firm and steady influence. Thus, the garrison was a fortress for the soul.

5. Nationalism

Nationalism drove the pens of many great early writers. Therefore, they used plots to build a strong country. Consequently, the books were full of love for Canada. Furthermore, they rejected the pull of the American way. Thus, the spirit of 1867 lived in every page. Moreover, authors sought to unify the different local people. Similarly, they used fiction to create a shared past. In addition, this goal was very noble and quite clear. Hence, the Canadian identity in fiction gained much strength. Subsequently, the novels became symbols of our rising power. Therefore, they helped people feel like a single nation. Consequently, the impact was very wide and very deep. Furthermore, it pushed the art toward a higher level. Moreover, it gave the writers a very high purpose. Thus, nationalism was the engine of the craft.

6. Romance

The historical romance was a very popular style then. Therefore, writers used grand adventures to hook the reader. Consequently, the plots were full of danger and love. Furthermore, they often looked back at the old days. Thus, the romance added a layer of high magic. Moreover, it made the rugged land feel very epic. Similarly, it used the past to explain the present. In addition, these books sold many copies in the city. Hence, the genre was a huge commercial success too. Subsequently, it helped to create a local mythic world. Therefore, the heroes were larger than the real life. Consequently, they inspired the young to dream of glory. Furthermore, it was a very colorful and bright style. Moreover, it balanced the hard reality of the bush. Thus, romance was a key part of art.

7. Realism

Realism brought a sharp eye to the Canadian farm. Therefore, writers described the mud and the hard work. Consequently, the books felt very honest and quite true. Furthermore, they avoided the fake polish of old Europe. Thus, realism gave a voice to the common man. Moreover, it showed the truth of the long winter. Similarly, it looked at the social class in towns. In addition, this style helped define the Canadian identity in fiction. Hence, readers saw their own lives on the page. Subsequently, the novel became a tool for social change. Therefore, it did not hide the pain of progress. Consequently, the tone was often very serious and deep. Furthermore, it required a lot of careful and close watch. Moreover, it was a very brave and bold move. Thus, realism anchored the national story.

8. Narrative

The narrative structure was often very long and slow. Therefore, readers spent many weeks with a single book. Consequently, the plot moved like a deep, wide river. Furthermore, it included many different voices and many scenes. Thus, the narrative was a very grand and complex. Moreover, it allowed for deep growth of the characters. Similarly, it reflected the slow pace of the era. In addition, this style was a sign of skill. Hence, the writers proved they could handle big ideas. Subsequently, the story became a journey for the soul. Therefore, it was more than just a quick thrill. Consequently, it built a sense of a whole world. Furthermore, it used detail to create a rich texture. Moreover, it was a very formal and noble art. Thus, the narrative was the spine of fiction.

9. Moral Lessons

Realism also focused on the inner life of people. Therefore, the characters faced very hard and real choices. Consequently, the novel explored the grit of the mind. Furthermore, it showed the cost of a bad deed. Thus, the truth was often very cold and hard. Moreover, it avoided the happy ending of the romance. Similarly, it stayed true to the laws of nature. In addition, this gave the work a lasting power. Hence, we still read these books with great respect. Subsequently, it influenced the next century of our writers. Therefore, it was a very vital and deep shift. Consequently, it brought the world closer to the Canadian dirt. Furthermore, it proved that our lives were worth art. Moreover, it was a very sincere and honest pursuit. Thus, realism was a triumph for the nation.

10. Immigrant

The immigrant experience was a major theme in fiction. Therefore, novels explored the shock of the new land. Consequently, the characters felt lost in the vast woods. Furthermore, they struggled to learn the hard northern ways. Thus, the book was a guide for the soul. Moreover, it showed the pain of leaving the home. Similarly, it celebrated the courage of the new people. In addition, this theme is core to the Canadian identity in fiction. Hence, the stories were full of hope and fear. Subsequently, the immigrant became a hero of the page. Therefore, the novel built a bridge between two worlds. Consequently, it helped people feel less alone in Canada. Furthermore, it was a very moving and deep topic. Moreover, it reflected the reality of the growing state. Thus, the immigrant was the heart of books.

11. Pioneer

The pioneer spirit lived in the heart of novels. Therefore, authors praised the men of the axe. Consequently, they turned the farm into a holy space. Furthermore, they saw the pioneer as a national saint. Thus, the work of survival was a grand theme. Moreover, it required a lot of grit and faith. Similarly, it showed the power of the human will. In addition, this focus defined the local literary scene. Hence, the book was a tribute to the past. Subsequently, it gave us a reason to be proud. Therefore, we still honor the story of the bush. Consequently, it was a very rugged and strong art. Furthermore, it avoided the soft ways of the city. Moreover, it was a very honest and simple pursuit. Thus, the pioneer was a pillar of the page.

12. BNA Act

The BNA Act of 1867 changed the literary world. Therefore, writers felt a new duty to the state. Consequently, they wrote stories to support the new union. Furthermore, the act provided a goal for the novel. Thus, the law was a spark for the mind. Moreover, it created a sense of a shared future. Similarly, it pushed authors to move past the colony. In addition, this shift was very rapid and sure. Hence, the Canadian identity in fiction rose very fast. Subsequently, the novels became tools for the new nation. Therefore, they helped to justify the large, wide borders. Consequently, the impact was both political and quite artistic. Furthermore, it gave the people a sense of home. Moreover, it was a very historic and bold time. Thus, the act lived through the great book.

13. Empire

The link to the British Empire was very firm. Therefore, many novels honored the queen and her rule. Consequently, the characters were often loyal and very brave. Furthermore, they saw Canada as a jewel of the crown. Thus, imperialism was a very natural part of life. Moreover, it provided a sense of safety and class. Similarly, it linked the local book to the world. In addition, this theme was very common in romances. Hence, the audience felt part of a global power. Subsequently, the scripts praised the duty of the soldier. Therefore, the empire was a source of grand pride. Consequently, it gave the nation a sense of high purpose. Furthermore, it acted as a cultural north star for all. Moreover, it was a very steady and firm influence. Thus, the book served the king.

14. French

French Canada provided a rich ground for the novelists. Therefore, they wrote about the old ways of Quebec. Consequently, the stories were full of faith and history. Furthermore, they used the local dialect to add truth. Thus, the French voice was a vital part of art. Moreover, it showed the diversity of the new nation. Similarly, it looked at the tension between two cultures. In addition, this theme added a deep layer of drama. Hence, the Canadian identity in fiction was quite complex. Subsequently, the books were read by people in every province. Therefore, they helped to build a sense of a whole. Consequently, the influence was very wide and very lasting. Furthermore, it honored the roots of the first settlers. Moreover, it was a very poetic and rich style. Thus, the French soul lived on the page.

15. Urbanization

Realism in the city showed the smoke and noise. Therefore, writers looked at the busy streets of Toronto. Consequently, the novel captured the rise of the machine. Furthermore, it showed the gap between the rich and poor. Thus, urbanization was a very dramatic and real theme. Moreover, it was a move away from the quiet woods. Similarly, it reflected the fast pace of the new age. In addition, this style was very modern and quite bold. Hence, it appealed to the young and active reader. Subsequently, the novel became a mirror of the modern world. Therefore, it did not shy away from the dark truth. Consequently, it was a very sharp and very clear watch. Furthermore, it provided a sense of the changing times. Moreover, it was a very vital part of our history. Thus, the city lived in art.

16. War History

Historical romance often focused on the grand old wars. Therefore, characters fought for honor and for the land. Consequently, the plots were full of action and blood. Furthermore, they made the past feel very close and real. Thus, the romance was a tool for the memory. Moreover, it created heroes that the people could love. Similarly, it turned the old maps into beautiful songs. In addition, this was a very successful way to write. Hence, many authors became famous for these epic tales. Subsequently, they defined the look of the Canadian past. Therefore, we still see our history through their eyes. Consequently, it was a very colorful and a grand pursuit. Furthermore, it gave us a sense of high drama. Moreover, it was a very proud and a noble style. Thus, the war lived in the book.

17. Canon

Literature was a sign of a real and mature state. Therefore, the novel was a very serious and fine art. Consequently, the writers cared about the quality of text. Furthermore, they were part of the national literary canon. Thus, fiction was more than just a simple story. Moreover, it was a way to keep the spirit pure. Similarly, the novelists were often the leaders of culture. In addition, this link made the work very deep. Hence, the page was a place for the best ideas. Subsequently, we study these books in the school today. Therefore, they are a solid part of our shared past. Consequently, they reflect the high and the noble mind. Furthermore, they are full of wisdom and a great skill. Moreover, they were very disciplined and quite formal. Thus, the book was a home for truth.

18. Founders

The local authors were the pioneers of the mind. Therefore, they had to create a market from scratch. Consequently, they often wrote for the love of the land. Furthermore, they did time as teachers or as clerks. Thus, they were very brave and very creative people. Moreover, they used their pens to fight for identity. Similarly, they looked at the world with fresh eyes. In addition, they wanted to be heard on global stages. Hence, their work was a labor of deep passion. Subsequently, they earned the respect of the growing public. Therefore, we honor their names in our history books. Consequently, they were the architects of the Canadian page. Furthermore, they overcame many hard and cold obstacles. Moreover, they showed that talent lived in the North. Thus, their books are a very precious gift.

19. Character

Canada was the main character of every single novel. Therefore, the plot always revolved around the local soil. Consequently, the writers used the land to move the heart. Furthermore, they saw the nation as a living thing. Thus, the country was the muse of the whole era. Moreover, it dictated the tone and the rugged style. Similarly, it provided the colors and the many sounds. In addition, this focus defined the Canadian identity in fiction. Hence, the book was a map of the national spirit. Subsequently, it helped the people to know their own home. Therefore, the novel was a tribute to the great North. Consequently, it was a very sincere and a deep pursuit. Furthermore, it gave the land a voice and a soul. Moreover, it was a very proud and a bold time. Thus, the nation lived in the page.

20. Exchange

Culture was the bridge between the different local people. Therefore, the novel was a place of high exchange. Consequently, it brought the ideas of the world here. Furthermore, it created a local and a very unique scene. Thus, the fiction was a sign of a real life. Moreover, it moved us past the simple work of survival. Similarly, it added a layer of beauty to the daily. In addition, this cultural growth was very rapid and sure. Hence, the page was a place for the mind. Subsequently, we see the era as a golden age. Therefore, the novel was a very vital and deep resource. Consequently, it supported the growth of the whole country. Furthermore, it was full of style and a high grace. Moreover, it was a very social and a human thing. Thus, the book was a temple of culture.

21. Environment

The landscape was the star of the whole book. Therefore, writers described the pines and the cold rocks. Consequently, the setting was more than just a background. Furthermore, it shaped the mood of the entire story. Thus, the land was a powerful and silent force. Moreover, it was a character that could kill or save. Similarly, it was a symbol of the vast, open future. In addition, this gave the work a very unique feel. Hence, the Canadian identity in fiction was very earthy. Subsequently, the novel captured the light on the snow. Therefore, the reader felt the wind and the deep frost. Consequently, it was a very vivid and a sharp watch. Furthermore, it honored the physical reality of the North. Moreover, it was a very sincere and a deep pursuit. Thus, the soil lived in art.

22. Mystique

The North was a place of pure magic and fear. Therefore, poets and novelists used it as a holy site. Consequently, the books were full of ice and silence. Furthermore, they saw the North as the true home. Thus, the direction became a very deep feeling. Moreover, it was a space for the soul to grow. Similarly, it was a theme that defined the nation. In addition, this coldness was a source of unique beauty. Hence, the novel was very different from any other. Subsequently, the North was mapped by the local books. Therefore, it was a place of adventure and deep thought. Consequently, it shaped how the story felt to everyone. Furthermore, it was very rugged and quite unpredictable. Moreover, it was a very vast and a grand character. Thus, the North lived in the page.

23. Texture

The rugged nature of life was a constant theme. Therefore, the language of the novel was often very hard. Consequently, it avoided the soft words of the city. Furthermore, it reflected the grit of the pioneer man. Thus, the style was a mirror of the physical land. Moreover, it required a lot of strength to read. Similarly, it showed the beauty of the jagged edge. In addition, this gave the work a very honest tone. Hence, the Canadian identity in fiction was very tough. Subsequently, the novel honored the struggle to survive here. Therefore, the pages felt like the rock and the tree. Consequently, it was a very sincere and a deep pursuit. Furthermore, it gave the nation a sense of its power. Moreover, it was a very proud and a bold time. Thus, the grit lived in the book.

24. Ethics

Every novel had to teach a very clear lesson. Therefore, the struggle between good and evil was key. Consequently, the villain always lost in the final act. Furthermore, the hero represented the best of the soul. Thus, morality was the backbone of the entire plot. Moreover, the audience expected to learn a great truth. Similarly, the stories dealt with temperance and hard work. In addition, this made the book very respectable for all. Hence, parents felt safe giving them to the kids. Subsequently, the page was a partner of the church. Therefore, it promoted a life of virtue and grace. Consequently, the message was always very loud and clear. Furthermore, it built a sense of national character and grit. Moreover, it was a very sincere and an honest art. Thus, the lesson lived.

25. Mirror

The novel was a mirror of the local society. Therefore, it captured the manners of the new towns. Consequently, the plot looked at the rules of the group. Furthermore, it showed how people lived together in peace. Thus, the book was a social record of the time. Moreover, it explored the roles of the men and women. Similarly, it reflected the values of the Victorian age. In addition, this gave the work a very real weight. Hence, the Canadian identity in fiction was very human. Subsequently, the novel helped to shape the local behavior. Therefore, it was a place for the community to see itself. Consequently, it was a very vital and a deep resource. Furthermore, it was full of detail and a sense of life. Moreover, it was a very social and a human thing. Thus, the town lived.

26. Hierarchy

Social class was a subtle but very firm theme. Therefore, the novels looked at the gap in the city. Consequently, characters often struggled to move up in life. Furthermore, it showed the weight of the old world ways. Thus, class was a hurdle for the new Canadian man. Moreover, it reflected the rise of the middle class here. Similarly, it was a theme that touched every single person. In addition, this gave the work a very realistic feel. Hence, the book was a tool for the social study. Subsequently, the novel explored the tension of the money. Therefore, it was more than just a simple adventure. Consequently, it built a sense of a whole world. Furthermore, it was full of grit and a sense of truth. Moreover, it was a very sincere and an honest art. Thus, the class lived.

27. Variety

Regionalism made the Canadian novel very diverse and rich. Therefore, stories captured the unique soul of each place. Consequently, the Maritime coast felt very different from Quebec. Furthermore, the West brought a sense of vast space. Thus, the novel was a map of the whole land. Moreover, it honored the local voice and the dialect. Similarly, it showed that every corner had a story. In addition, this gave the work a very vivid texture. Hence, the Canadian identity in fiction was a quilt. Subsequently, the books were read by people far and wide. Therefore, they helped to unite the different local people. Consequently, the impact was both local and quite national. Furthermore, it was full of color and a sense of life. Thus, the region lived in the page.

28. Speech

Using the local dialect was a way to find truth. Therefore, characters spoke like the real people of Canada. Consequently, the dialogue felt very rugged and quite honest. Furthermore, it avoided the fake polish of the old world. Thus, the voice was a sign of the national pride. Moreover, it showed that our speech was worth the art. Similarly, it added a layer of realism to the plot. In addition, this gave the work a very unique sound. Hence, the book was a tribute to the common man. Subsequently, the reader felt close to the living heart. Therefore, the novel was a bridge between the classes. Consequently, it was a very bold and a very brave move. Furthermore, it required a lot of careful and close watch. Thus, the dialect lived in the book.

29. Critique

Satire was a sharp tool for the Canadian novelist. Therefore, they used humor to mock the greedy leaders. Consequently, the reader laughed at the dry political world. Furthermore, it was a very witty and a quick style. Thus, the satirist was a vital social critic for us. Moreover, they poked fun at the fake manners of the city. Similarly, they used the book to speak for the people. In addition, these stories were often very fast and fun. Hence, they were hits in the busy and loud towns. Subsequently, they helped to keep the state quite honest. Therefore, the satire was a sign of a healthy mind. Consequently, it showed that Canadians had a great wit. Furthermore, it balanced the serious tone of the bush. Thus, the laugh lived in the page.

30. Wit

Humor was the best way to survive the long cold. Therefore, the novels were full of funny local tales. Consequently, the characters used wit to face the hard life. Furthermore, it was a very light and a joyful style. Thus, humor was a gift for the tired settler. Moreover, it brought a sense of light to the dark. Similarly, it was a theme that united the whole nation. In addition, this gave the work a very friendly feel. Hence, the book was a favorite for many families. Subsequently, the humor helped to build the national grit. Therefore, the novel was a source of great and deep joy. Consequently, it was more than just a dry lesson. Furthermore, it was full of life and a sense of hope. Moreover, it was a very social and a human thing. Thus, the joke lived.

31. Norms

Gender roles were very strict during the Victorian era. Therefore, the novel looked at the duties of the home. Consequently, women were often the moral heart of the story. Furthermore, men were the brave providers of the family. Thus, the book reflected the social rules of the age. Moreover, it showed the strength of the private world. Similarly, it was a theme that touched every single person. In addition, this gave the work a very relatable feel. Hence, the Canadian identity in fiction was very whole. Subsequently, the novel helped to define the local behavior. Therefore, it was a place for the community to see itself. Consequently, it was a very vital and a deep resource. Furthermore, it was full of detail and a sense of life. Thus, the role lived.

32. Voice

Women writers were very powerful in the early North. Therefore, they wrote about the life of the cabin. Consequently, they captured the detail of the daily work. Furthermore, they were often more realistic than the men. Thus, the female voice was a pillar of the craft. Moreover, they used fiction to share their many trials. Similarly, they showed the beauty of the quiet strength. In addition, this focus gave the work a lasting power. Hence, we still read these books with great respect. Subsequently, they earned a place of honor in art. Therefore, they were the architects of the Canadian page. Consequently, they brought a sense of justice to the story. Furthermore, they were very brave and very creative people. Thus, the woman lived in the book.

33. Debate

Politics was a major driver for the Canadian novel. Therefore, characters debated the power of the new state. Consequently, the plot looked at the big laws of 1867. Furthermore, it reflected the high tension of the union. Thus, the state was a very dramatic character itself. Moreover, it forced the people to think about the future. Similarly, it was a theme that touched every person. In addition, it provided a rich ground for the plot. Hence, the book was a place to digest the news. Subsequently, the act was seen as a new beginning. Therefore, it inspired a sense of hope and a fear. Consequently, the novel was very timely and quite relevant. Furthermore, it showed that laws change lives and hearts. Thus, the vote lived in the page.

34. Order

The state was the protector of the national identity. Therefore, the novels praised the order of the law. Consequently, the characters followed the rules of the Dominion. Furthermore, they saw the state as a holy thing. Thus, the novel was a tool for the public peace. Moreover, it showed the beauty of a structured life. Similarly, it reflected the values of the distant crown. In addition, this gave the work a very formal tone. Hence, the Canadian identity in fiction was very noble. Subsequently, the novel helped to build the local respect. Therefore, it was more than just a simple adventure. Consequently, it built a sense of a whole world. Furthermore, it was full of grit and a sense of truth. Moreover, it was a very sincere and an honest art. Thus, the law lived.

35. Liberty

Sovereignty was a goal for the young and bold Canada. Therefore, the novel focused on the power to lead. Consequently, the plot looked at the right to rule. Furthermore, it rejected the pull of the old world. Thus, the book was a voice for the new people. Moreover, it showed that we could lead our own way. Similarly, it was a theme that was very timely. In addition, this gave the work a very strong feel. Hence, the book was a favorite for the patriots. Subsequently, it built a sense of national and deep pride. Therefore, the novel was a place for the free mind. Consequently, it supported the growth of the whole country. Furthermore, it was a very bold and a very brave work. Moreover, it was a sign of a real state. Thus, the right lived.

36. Shadow

The colonial mind was a weight on the writers. Therefore, they struggled to find their own unique path. Consequently, many early books felt like simple British copies. Furthermore, they used English settings for the local crowd. Thus, colonialism was a hurdle for the local voice. Moreover, it shaped the way the authors wrote then. Similarly, it influenced the design of the whole novel. In addition, this era was a slow crawl to freedom. Hence, the fiction reflected the growing pains of Canada. Subsequently, the poets started to reject the old ways. Therefore, they began to write about their own soil. Consequently, the shift was very gradual but very sure. Furthermore, it required a lot of courage to be real. Thus, the colony lived.

37. Reach

Imperialism provided a sense of place in the world. Therefore, many novels honored the power of the empire. Consequently, the characters were often loyal and very brave. Furthermore, they saw Canada as a jewel of the crown. Thus, the novel was a tool for the public peace. Moreover, it provided a sense of safety and class. Similarly, it linked the local book to the world. In addition, this theme was very common in romances. Hence, the audience felt part of a global power. Subsequently, the scripts praised the duty of the soldier. Therefore, the empire was a source of grand pride. Consequently, it gave the nation a sense of high purpose. Furthermore, it acted as a cultural north star for all. Thus, the empire lived in art.

38. Duncan

Sara Jeannette Duncan was a giant of the local page. Therefore, her work The Imperialist is a very famous book. Consequently, it captured the soul of a small town. Furthermore, it used a very sharp and witty style. Thus, she proved that Canadians could write high art. Moreover, her themes were political and very deeply human. Similarly, she focused on the tension of the nation. In addition, her prose was very dense and quite rich. Hence, she was a hero to the literary class. Subsequently, her success inspired many others to write more. Therefore, she is a key figure in our shared history. Consequently, she brought a sense of gravity to the era. Furthermore, she worked hard as a very busy journalist. Thus, Duncan lived.

39. De Mille

James De Mille brought a sense of wonder to fiction. Therefore, his work A Strange Manuscript is a classic. Consequently, it used a very grand and epic style. Furthermore, it was an early form of local science fiction. Thus, he proved that we had a huge imagination. Moreover, his themes were dark and very deeply mysterious. Similarly, he focused on a world in the south. In addition, his plot was very fast and quite rich. Hence, he was a favorite for the adventure fans. Subsequently, his success showed that we could be creative. Therefore, he is a key figure in our book history. Consequently, he brought a sense of thrill to the era. Furthermore, he was a very popular and a busy teacher. Thus, De Mille lived in the page.

40. Connor

Ralph Connor was the most popular writer of his age. Therefore, his books sold millions of copies far and wide. Consequently, he captured the soul of the western wild. Furthermore, he used the theme of Muscular Christianity often. Thus, his heroes were strong and very deeply pious. Moreover, he saw the frontier as a place for God. Similarly, he used fiction to preach a good life. In addition, his work was very moving and quite clear. Hence, he was a hero to the common reader. Subsequently, his success built the national and deep pride. Therefore, he is a key figure in our book history. Consequently, he brought a sense of hope to the era. Furthermore, he was a very busy and a vocal minister. Thus, Connor lived in art.

41. Parker

Gilbert Parker loved the grand adventure of the past. Therefore, his historical novels were very popular in London. Consequently, he became a global star of the local page. Furthermore, he used a very rich and poetic style. Thus, he proved that our history was very epic. Moreover, his themes were political and very deeply human. Similarly, he focused on the heroes of old Quebec. In addition, his prose was very dense and quite rich. Hence, he was a hero to the literary class. Subsequently, his success inspired many others to write more. Therefore, he is a key figure in our shared history. Consequently, he brought a sense of pride to the era. Furthermore, he was a very busy and a vocal politician. Thus, Parker lived.

42. Kirby

William Kirby wrote the classic The Golden Dog in 1877. Therefore, he brought the old French legends to life. Consequently, his book is a landmark of the era's art. Furthermore, he used a very grand and epic style. Thus, he proved that we had a deep past. Moreover, his themes were tragic and very deeply human. Similarly, he focused on the greed and the love. In addition, his prose was very dense and quite rich. Hence, he was a hero to the literary class. Subsequently, his success inspired many others to write more. Therefore, he is a key figure in our shared history. Consequently, he brought a sense of weight to the era. Furthermore, he was a very busy and a vocal editor. Thus, Kirby lived in art.

43. Leprohon

Rosanna Leprohon was a vital voice for the two cultures. Therefore, her novels bridged the English and the French. Consequently, she showed the beauty of the Montreal life. Furthermore, she used a very sharp and witty style. Thus, she proved that women could lead the art. Moreover, her themes were social and very deeply human. Similarly, she focused on the manners of the city. In addition, her prose was very dense and quite rich. Hence, she was a hero to the literary class. Subsequently, her success inspired many others to write more. Therefore, she is a key figure in our shared history. Consequently, she brought a sense of grace to the era. Furthermore, she was a very busy and a vocal poet. Thus, Leprohon lived.

44. Moodie

Susanna Moodie wrote the most famous pioneer book ever. Therefore, Roughing it in the Bush is a classic. Consequently, it captured the raw truth of the wild. Furthermore, it used a very sharp and honest style. Thus, she proved that realism was a strong tool. Moreover, her themes were hard and very deeply human. Similarly, she focused on the struggle to stay alive. In addition, her prose was very dense and quite rich. Hence, she was a hero to the literary class. Subsequently, her success inspired many others to write more. Therefore, she is a key figure in our shared history. Consequently, she brought a sense of grit to the era. Furthermore, she was a very brave and bold woman. Thus, Moodie lived.

45. Traill

Catherine Parr Traill saw the beauty in the wild bush. Therefore, her books are a guide to the nature. Consequently, she captured the detail of the local plants. Furthermore, she used a very clear and honest style. Thus, she proved that nature was a holy muse. Moreover, her themes were helpful and very deeply human. Similarly, she focused on the peace of the farm. In addition, her prose was very dense and quite rich. Hence, she was a hero to the literary class. Subsequently, her success inspired many others to write more. Therefore, she is a key figure in our shared history. Consequently, she brought a sense of light to the era. Furthermore, she was a very brave and bold woman. Thus, Traill lived.

46. Piety

Muscular Christianity was a major theme in the West. Therefore, heroes were both strong and very deeply pious. Consequently, the novel praised the health of the soul. Furthermore, it showed that a good man works hard. Thus, the spirit and the body were linked here. Moreover, it was a very popular and strong style. Similarly, it reflected the values of the frontier church. In addition, this gave the work a very noble feel. Hence, the book was a favorite for many families. Subsequently, it helped to build the national grit. Therefore, the novel was a source of great hope. Consequently, it was more than just a dry lesson. Furthermore, it was full of life and a sense of power. Thus, the faith lived.

47. Protocol

The Victorian age defined the manners of the novel. Therefore, characters followed the strict rules of the day. Consequently, the stories were very proper and quite decent. Furthermore, they respected the authority of the crown. Thus, the book was a mirror of the age. Moreover, it showed the beauty of a structured life. Similarly, it reflected the values of the distant home. In addition, this gave the work a very formal tone. Hence, the Canadian identity in fiction was very noble. Subsequently, the novel helped to build the local respect. Therefore, it was more than just a simple adventure. Consequently, it built a sense of a whole world. Furthermore, it was full of grit and a sense of truth. Thus, the era lived in the page.

48. Periodical

Many novels were first published in the local papers. Therefore, readers waited for each new part every week. Consequently, the plot had to be very fast and fun. Furthermore, it created a sense of a shared journey. Thus, serialization was a very modern and bold move. Moreover, it allowed the writer to reach the poor. Similarly, it was a way to make a living. In addition, this style made the prose very exciting. Hence, the public was very active and quite noisy. Subsequently, the novel was a social and a human thing. Therefore, we still value the old and noble style. Consequently, it was a very clever and a sharp move. Furthermore, it gave the prose a sense of class. Thus, the part lived.

49. Vignette

Sketches were short stories about the local life here. Therefore, they captured the small details of the town. Consequently, the book was a quilt of many scenes. Furthermore, they used a very sharp and honest style. Thus, the sketch was a sign of the national pride. Moreover, it allowed the writer to be very quick. Similarly, it showed that every corner had a story. In addition, this gave the work a very vivid texture. Hence, the book was a favorite for many families. Subsequently, it helped to build the national grit. Therefore, the novel was a source of great hope. Consequently, it was more than just a dry lesson. Furthermore, it was full of life and a sense of hope. Thus, the bit lived.

50. Growth

Urbanization changed the face of the Canadian novel slowly. Therefore, writers looked at the rise of the cities. Consequently, the plot moved away from the quiet woods. Furthermore, it showed the stress of the busy street. Thus, the city was a very dramatic and real theme. Moreover, it reflected the fast pace of the age. Similarly, it looked at the gaps in the society. In addition, this style was very modern and quite bold. Hence, it appealed to the young and active reader. Subsequently, the novel became a mirror of the world. Therefore, it did not shy away from the truth. Consequently, it was a very sharp and a clear watch. Furthermore, it was full of grit and a sense of life. Thus, the city lived.

51. Future

Progress was a major theme in the late 1800s. Therefore, novels celebrated the rail and the new tech. Consequently, the characters were often engineers and bold men. Furthermore, they saw the future as a bright light. Thus, the novel was a tool for the public hope. Moreover, it showed the beauty of the growing nation. Similarly, it reflected the values of the modern world. In addition, this gave the work a very strong feel. Hence, the Canadian identity in fiction was very bold. Subsequently, the novel helped to build the local pride. Therefore, it was more than just a simple adventure. Consequently, it built a sense of a whole world. Furthermore, it was full of grit and a sense of truth. Thus, the move lived.

52. Legend

Creating a national myth was the work of writers. Therefore, they used prose to invent the Canadian past. Consequently, the page was a place for the legendary. Furthermore, they gave the young land a sense of age. Thus, the mythos was the foundation of the culture. Moreover, it turned real events into holy and grand stories. Similarly, it helped to unite the broad and wide land. In addition, this was a very conscious and a bold act. Hence, the writers were the shamans of the new state. Subsequently, we still live within the myths they wrote. Therefore, the fiction was a very vital and a deep force. Consequently, it gave us a sense of who we really are. Thus, the myth lived in the page.

53. Lineage

Heritage was a way to ground the new nation. Therefore, the novels looked back at the old roots. Consequently, characters honored the ways of their many fathers. Furthermore, they saw the past as a sacred thing. Thus, the novel was a tool for the public peace. Moreover, it showed the beauty of a structured life. Similarly, it reflected the values of the distant home. In addition, this gave the work a very formal tone. Hence, the Canadian identity in fiction was very noble. Subsequently, the novel helped to build the local respect. Therefore, it was more than just a simple adventure. Consequently, it built a sense of a whole world. Furthermore, it was full of grit and a sense of truth. Thus, the root lived.

54. Inner Life

The soul was the final target of the novelist. Therefore, the books were full of spiritual and deep thought. Consequently, the plot was a test of the heart. Furthermore, they saw the North as a holy place. Thus, the novel was a tool for the spirit. Moreover, it showed the beauty of a quiet life. Similarly, it reflected the values of the distant crown. In addition, this gave the work a very formal tone. Hence, the Canadian identity in fiction was very noble. Subsequently, the novel helped to build the local respect. Therefore, it was more than just a simple adventure. Consequently, it built a sense of a whole world. Furthermore, it was full of grit and a sense of truth. Thus, the soul lived.

55. Influence

The legacy of this era lives in our books. Therefore, we must honor the work of the pioneers. Consequently, they were the ones who started the fire. Furthermore, they gave us the tools to speak our mind. Thus, the legacy is a very precious and deep gift. Moreover, it reminds us of our own rugged roots. Similarly, it shows that art is a vital part of life. In addition, their names will never really be forgotten by us. Hence, the book is a link to our shared past. Subsequently, we build upon the foundation they laid down. Therefore, the prose is a forever and a living thing. Consequently, it reflects the soul of the whole great nation. Thus, the legacy lives in the page.

56. Community

The society of the era was very much a unit. Therefore, the novel captured the pulse of the group. Consequently, characters worked for the good of the whole. Furthermore, it showed the strength of the local community. Thus, the book was a mirror of the public mind. Moreover, it reflected the values of the Victorian age. Similarly, it was a theme that touched every single person. In addition, this gave the work a very relatable feel. Hence, the Canadian identity in fiction was very whole. Subsequently, the novel helped to define the local behavior. Therefore, it was a place for the community to see itself. Consequently, it was a very vital and a deep resource. Thus, the society lived.

57. Governance

Politics remained the heart of the national and deep drama. Therefore, characters debated the power of the new state. Consequently, the plot looked at the big laws of 1867. Furthermore, it reflected the high tension of the union. Thus, the state was a very dramatic character itself. Moreover, it forced the people to think about the future. Similarly, it was a theme that touched every person. In addition, it provided a rich ground for the plot. Hence, the book was a place to digest the news. Subsequently, the act was seen as a new beginning. Therefore, it inspired a sense of hope and a fear. Consequently, the novel was very timely and quite relevant. Thus, the vote lived.

58. Outposts

The settlement of the West was a new frontier. Therefore, novels captured the vast space and the sky. Consequently, the plot moved away from the old East. Furthermore, it showed the grit of the new pioneer man. Thus, the West was a very dramatic and real theme. Moreover, it reflected the fast pace of the age. Similarly, it looked at the gaps in the society. In addition, this style was very modern and quite bold. Hence, it appealed to the young and active reader. Subsequently, the novel became a mirror of the world. Therefore, it did not shy away from the truth. Consequently, it was a very sharp and a clear watch. Thus, the farm lived.

59. Edge

The frontier was always moving further and further North. Therefore, the novel captured the edge of the world. Consequently, characters faced the extreme and the wild cold. Furthermore, they saw the land as a holy temple. Thus, the frontier was the heart of the nation. Moreover, it was a space for the spirit to grow. Similarly, it was a theme that defined the Canadian soul. In addition, this wildness was a source of unique beauty. Hence, the novel was very different from any other. Subsequently, the North was mapped by the local books. Therefore, it was a place of adventure and deep thought. Thus, the edge lived.

60. Self

Finding a Canadian identity was the final goal of art. Therefore, the prose was a search for the self. Consequently, every book asked what it meant to be us. Furthermore, the writers rejected the labels of the past. Thus, identity was a work in progress on the page. Moreover, it was a mix of the old and the new. Similarly, it grew with every story and every show. In addition, this search was a very serious and long quest. Hence, the novel was a lab for the national soul. Subsequently, the identity became more clear and quite firm. Therefore, the fiction provided the mirror for the people. Thus, the identity lived.

Conclusion

The Confederation Period stands as the true dawn of the Canadian novel. This era transformed a quiet collection of colonies into a vibrant literary force. Writers worked tirelessly to build a permanent home for our unique stories. They did not just watch history happen; they turned the political union into living, breathing fiction. Consequently, they provided a page where the nation could finally see its own soul. Furthermore, they captured the rugged beauty of the north in every chapter. Thus, they gave the people a shared sense of pride and identity. We must honor their brave and very bold legacy today. Moreover, these pioneers laid the bedrock for all future Canadian prose. They faced immense challenges in a raw and untamed land. However, their passion for the book never flickered or died. Similarly, they used the novel to bridge the gaps between distant regions. Therefore, they helped to unite a broad country through the power of narrative. In addition, their technical skill set a very high bar for the world. Subsequently, they earned a place of honor in our literary history. Accordingly, we look back at their work with deep and sincere respect. They were the true architects of our national imagination and spirit. Consequently, their influence still echoes in our modern literature. Therefore, we recognize them as the founders of our artistic home.

To read Drama of the Confederation Period, follow the link: 

https://canlitstudies.blogspot.com/2026/02/drama-confederation-period-1860-1900-canada.html

To read Sarah Waters as Novelist, follow the link: 

https://englishlitnotes.com/2025/09/12/sarah-waters-as-novelist-neo-victorian-queer-fiction/