A picaresque novel is a genre of fiction that follows the adventures of a roguish protagonist, often of low social class, who lives by their wits in a corrupt society. The narrative is typically episodic, featuring a series of loosely connected events that highlight the character's cleverness and resilience. These novels often provide social commentary, exposing the flaws and hypocrisies of society. Classic examples include Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain, both of which showcase the journey of a young hero navigating various challenges and encounters.