Realism

Definition

Realism is a literary movement that emerged in the 19th century, focusing on depicting everyday life and society in a truthful, objective manner. This movement sought to portray ordinary characters and situations, highlighting the struggles and experiences of the common people while avoiding idealization and romanticism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Realism emerged as a reaction against romanticism, which focused on idealized emotions and heroic characters, moving towards more grounded narratives.
2. Key authors associated with realism include Gustave Flaubert, Leo Tolstoy, and Mark Twain, who explored themes related to social class, morality, and the human condition.
3. Realist writers often employed detailed descriptions and character development to create a sense of authenticity and relatability in their works.
4. This movement had a significant influence on later literary movements such as modernism and naturalism, which continued exploring realistic portrayals but with different techniques and themes.
5. Realism also sought to address contemporary social issues such as poverty, class struggle, and the impact of industrialization on society.

Review Questions

• How did realism differ from romanticism in its approach to character and narrative?
  • Realism differed from romanticism by focusing on ordinary characters and everyday situations rather than idealized heroes and fantastical elements. While romanticism emphasized emotions, individualism, and nature's beauty, realism aimed for an objective portrayal of life as it truly is. Realist authors highlighted the struggles of common people, offering insights into their lives without embellishment or glorification.
• Discuss how realism influenced social commentary within literature during its peak period.
  • Realism had a profound impact on social commentary in literature by encouraging authors to address the pressing issues of their time through their narratives. Realist writers used their works to shed light on social injustices, economic hardships, and the complexities of human relationships. By depicting real-life struggles faced by individuals in society, realism allowed readers to engage with these issues and fostered a deeper understanding of the human condition.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of realism on modern literature and its legacy in contemporary storytelling.
  • The long-term effects of realism on modern literature are evident in the continued emphasis on authenticity and relatable characters in contemporary storytelling. Realism laid the groundwork for later movements like naturalism and modernism, which further explored the complexities of human experience. Today, many authors continue to draw inspiration from realist principles by depicting social issues and creating narratives that resonate with readers' lives. This legacy ensures that realism remains a foundational aspect of literary exploration in understanding society's evolving dynamics.

Related terms

naturalism: A literary style that evolved from realism, emphasizing the influence of environment, heredity, and social conditions on human behavior.

social commentary: The act of using literature to critique societal issues and injustices, often found in realist works as authors reflect the conditions of their time.

verisimilitude: The appearance of being true or real in literature, a key characteristic of realism that aims to create a believable representation of life.