What is a common criticism of pastoral novels in contemporary literature?

A common criticism of pastoral novels in contemporary literature is that they are overly idealized. Pastoral novels typically depict rural life and nature in a romanticized manner, often portraying an idyllic existence that overlooks the challenges and hardships associated with rural living. This idealization can create a disconnect from reality, leading critics to argue that such portrayals fail to represent the complexities and struggles of life outside urban environments. By focusing exclusively on the beauty and tranquility of pastoral settings, these novels may neglect the socio-economic issues and the evolving nature of rural communities, resulting in a simplistic and unrealistic perspective on life in the countryside. This criticism highlights a desire for a more nuanced representation that acknowledges both the beauty and the difficulties inherent in pastoral life.