Meaning: The quote "Although by 1851 tales of adventure had begun to seem antiquated, they had rendered a large service to the course of literature: they had removed the stigma, for the most part, from the word novel." by Carl Doren, highlights the impact of adventure tales on the literary landscape during the mid-19th century. This quote reflects the evolving perception of literary genres and the influence of adventure stories on the broader concept of the novel. To fully understand the significance of this quote, it is essential to delve into the historical context of literature during the 19th century and the role of adventure tales in shaping literary conventions.

In the early 19th century, the literary landscape was undergoing significant transformations. The novel, as a literary form, was still establishing its legitimacy and cultural significance. Prior to this period, novels were often viewed with skepticism and were not always considered serious or respectable forms of literature. The emergence of adventure tales, however, played a crucial role in altering these perceptions.

During the 19th century, adventure tales captivated the imaginations of readers with their thrilling narratives, exotic settings, and daring exploits. These stories often featured heroic protagonists embarking on perilous journeys, encountering extraordinary challenges, and engaging in acts of bravery and derring-do. Authors such as James Fenimore Cooper, Alexandre Dumas, and Robert Louis Stevenson contributed to the popularity of adventure literature with works like "The Last of the Mohicans," "The Three Musketeers," and "Treasure Island."

The quote by Carl Doren suggests that while adventure tales may have appeared outdated by 1851, they had nonetheless made a significant contribution to the evolution of literature. One of the key contributions of adventure tales was their role in reshaping the perception of the novel as a literary form. By capturing the imagination of readers and demonstrating the potential for excitement and entertainment within the framework of a novel, adventure tales helped to elevate the status of the novel as a legitimate and respected genre.

Furthermore, adventure tales also expanded the thematic and narrative possibilities within the novel. These stories introduced elements of action, suspense, and exploration, broadening the scope of what could be considered suitable material for a novel. In doing so, they paved the way for the development of diverse genres and sub-genres within the broader category of fiction, ultimately enriching the literary landscape with a greater variety of storytelling styles and themes.

Additionally, the quote alludes to the idea that adventure tales played a role in destigmatizing the word "novel." Prior to the 19th century, the term "novel" carried connotations of frivolity and superficiality, often associated with works of little literary merit. However, the popularity and impact of adventure tales helped to redefine the novel as a vehicle for serious storytelling and artistic expression. By demonstrating the potential for depth, complexity, and cultural relevance within the framework of a novel, adventure tales contributed to a broader acceptance and appreciation of the novel as a legitimate and valuable form of literature.

In conclusion, Carl Doren's quote underscores the profound influence of adventure tales on the course of literature during the 19th century. These stories not only entertained and captivated readers but also played a pivotal role in reshaping the perception of the novel as a literary form. By expanding the thematic and narrative possibilities of the novel and challenging preconceived notions of literary merit, adventure tales contributed to the evolution of literature and the broader acceptance of the novel as a legitimate and respected genre.