English literature

When did the novel become a distinct literary form in English literature?

The popularity of literature written in prose began to grow in the 16th century, until by the late 17th century, we see the first of what can be considered modern novels--long, fictional stories that not only entertain, but espouse a fundamental truth.

The novel did not fully evolve into its current form until the late 19th century, when conventions regarding its length were established.