"The modern novel. Philosophical study", is a critical essay by the writer and journalist Mercedes Cabello de Carbonera published in 1892. In this, she reflects on the literary currents of the time, advocating a realistic style as an alternative to romanticism and naturalism. For the author, the art in the constitution of the modern novel is to hide the imaginary under the appearances of real life, and the focus of attention of the writer must be on the man, to study and know him. This essay earned her the Rose Gold Award in the Latin American essay contest promoted by the Literary Academy of Buenos Aires.