1.Introduction most commentators interpret the story as a satire on the kind of sentimental novel that was popular at the time. However,Goldsmith's satiric touches are so subtle that the novel has also been read as a sentimental,pastoral novel.1. Introduction ❖ most commentators interpret the story as a satire on the kind of sentimental novel that was popular at the time. ❖ However, Goldsmith's satiric touches are so subtle that the novel has also been read as a sentimental, pastoral novel