Realism

Definition

Realism is a literary movement that emerged in the 19th century, focusing on representing everyday life and ordinary people with a sense of accuracy and truthfulness. This movement sought to portray the complexities of life as they are, often highlighting social issues and the struggles of the common man. It stands in contrast to romanticism, which emphasized idealization and emotion over reality.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Realism began as a reaction against the idealized representations found in romantic literature, aiming to depict life more accurately and realistically.
2. In the early English novel, authors like George Eliot and Charles Dickens embraced realism to explore complex characters and societal issues.
3. Realist writers often utilized detailed settings and authentic dialogue to create a sense of verisimilitude that resonates with readers.
4. Daniel Defoe's works, such as 'Robinson Crusoe', contributed significantly to the development of realism by portraying realistic situations and character psychology.
5. The rise of realism coincided with significant societal changes, including industrialization and urbanization, which influenced the themes and settings of many realist novels.

Review Questions

• How did the emergence of realism change the portrayal of characters in literature compared to previous movements?
  • The emergence of realism shifted the portrayal of characters from the idealized heroes or romantic figures found in earlier literature to more complex, relatable individuals facing everyday challenges. Realist writers focused on the intricacies of human nature, showcasing flaws, motivations, and psychological depth. This change allowed readers to connect more personally with characters, as they reflected real-life experiences and struggles.
• Discuss how social issues were represented in realist literature and provide examples from notable authors.
  • Realist literature often served as a platform for addressing social issues such as class disparity, poverty, and moral dilemmas. Authors like Charles Dickens depicted the struggles of the working class in industrial England, illustrating harsh living conditions and societal neglect. Similarly, George Eliot explored gender roles and personal identity, emphasizing how these factors shaped individual lives within society. This focus on social commentary helped raise awareness about pressing issues of the time.
• Evaluate Daniel Defoe's contributions to the development of realism in literature and its lasting impact on future narratives.
  • Daniel Defoe's contributions to realism were foundational in shaping narrative techniques that emphasized authenticity and psychological depth. His novel 'Robinson Crusoe' depicted realistic survival scenarios and an introspective character grappling with isolation and self-reliance. Defoe's blend of detailed descriptions and credible character motivations set a precedent for future authors. His approach influenced later writers in both realism and naturalism, encouraging them to explore realistic scenarios while addressing broader societal themes, thereby leaving a lasting impact on the evolution of the novel.

Related terms

Naturalism: A more extreme form of realism, naturalism emphasizes the influence of environment and heredity on human behavior, often depicting a deterministic view of life.

Character Development: The process by which an author creates a believable and relatable character, crucial in realism to connect readers with everyday experiences.

Social Commentary: The use of literature to provide insight or critique on social issues, which is a significant aspect of realism as it addresses the conditions and challenges faced by individuals in society.