19th-century realism

Definition

19th-century realism is a theatrical movement that aimed to depict everyday life and society with accuracy and detail, moving away from the romanticized and idealized portrayals of earlier periods. This movement emphasized the representation of ordinary characters and situations, reflecting contemporary social issues, and presenting a more truthful perspective on human experiences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 19th-century realism emerged as a reaction against romanticism, which often portrayed idealized characters and situations.
2. Playwrights like Henrik Ibsen and Anton Chekhov are key figures in 19th-century realism, using their works to explore complex human emotions and societal constraints.
3. Realist plays often focus on the middle class, depicting their struggles and relationships in a way that reflects real-life experiences.
4. This movement paved the way for naturalism by advocating for a more scientific representation of life and human behavior in theatre.
5. The well-made play structure became a hallmark of many realist works, featuring elements like exposition, rising action, climax, and resolution to create a sense of order and clarity.

Review Questions

• How did 19th-century realism differ from previous theatrical movements, particularly romanticism?
  • 19th-century realism distinguished itself from romanticism by focusing on accurate depictions of everyday life rather than idealized or exaggerated portrayals. While romanticism often celebrated heroic figures and extraordinary events, realism aimed to present ordinary characters facing relatable situations. This shift allowed playwrights to address contemporary social issues directly and encouraged audiences to engage with the realities of their own lives.
• Discuss the significance of the well-made play structure in relation to 19th-century realism and its impact on character development.
  • The well-made play structure significantly contributed to 19th-century realism by providing a clear framework for storytelling that emphasized logical progression and character motivations. This structure allowed playwrights to develop complex characters whose decisions and actions directly reflected their circumstances. As audiences followed the cause-and-effect relationships laid out in these plays, they became more invested in the characters’ journeys, making the social commentary more impactful.
• Evaluate how 19th-century realism influenced modern theatre practices and audience expectations.
  • 19th-century realism had a profound influence on modern theatre by establishing expectations for authenticity in performance and narrative. The focus on depicting real-life situations led to innovations in acting techniques, set design, and scriptwriting that prioritized naturalism. Audiences began to seek out stories that resonated with their experiences, prompting playwrights to delve into complex social issues and character psychology, shaping the trajectory of contemporary theatre as we know it today.

Related terms

Naturalism: A style within realism that focuses on a more scientific approach to human behavior, suggesting that environment, heredity, and social conditions shape individuals.

Well-Made Play: A dramatic structure characterized by tight plotting, clear cause-and-effect relationships, and a climax that resolves all subplots in a satisfying way.

Social Commentary: The use of artistic expression to critique or comment on societal issues, often present in realist works to highlight social injustices and provoke thought.