Realism

Definition

Realism is a literary movement that emerged in the late 19th century, characterized by a focus on depicting everyday life and society with accuracy and detail, often addressing social issues and the struggles of ordinary people. This approach aimed to provide a truthful representation of reality, emphasizing character development and plausible plots over romanticized or exaggerated narratives. Realism connects deeply with themes of identity, societal constraints, and the human condition, making it a vital lens through which various authors and their works can be understood.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Realism emerged as a reaction against the romanticism of the early 19th century, emphasizing authenticity and the depiction of everyday life.
2. Authors associated with realism often focused on the lives of middle and lower-class characters, showcasing their struggles and triumphs within society.
3. Realist works frequently incorporate detailed descriptions of settings, social contexts, and character motivations to create relatable narratives.
4. The movement paved the way for later literary developments like naturalism, which took realism further by incorporating a more scientific approach to character behavior.
5. Key themes in realist literature include social class conflict, the impact of industrialization, and the complexity of human relationships.

Review Questions

• How does realism differ from romanticism in its portrayal of characters and settings?
  • Realism differs from romanticism primarily in its emphasis on authenticity and the mundane aspects of life. While romanticism often idealizes characters and settings, portraying them in exaggerated or fantastical ways, realism seeks to present an accurate depiction of everyday experiences and societal issues. Realist authors focus on ordinary people facing real-life challenges, using detailed descriptions to create relatable narratives that reflect actual societal conditions.
• Discuss how realism serves as a form of social commentary in the works of notable authors.
  • Realism serves as a powerful form of social commentary by allowing authors to address pressing societal issues through their narratives. Authors like Zora Neale Hurston and Richard Wright utilized realistic portrayals of African American life to highlight racial inequalities and injustices. By focusing on authentic experiences and character development, these writers were able to engage readers with critical reflections on race, class, and identity in America, encouraging deeper understanding and dialogue about these important topics.
• Evaluate the significance of Lorraine Hansberry's 'A Raisin in the Sun' as an example of realism in literature and its exploration of social issues.
  • 'A Raisin in the Sun' exemplifies realism by presenting a nuanced portrayal of an African American family struggling with economic hardship, dreams deferred, and racial discrimination. Hansberry's realistic dialogue and character development highlight the complexities of their aspirations amidst societal constraints. The play not only reflects the realities faced by African Americans during the 1950s but also serves as a critique of systemic racism and the pursuit of the American Dream. This blend of realism with social commentary allows audiences to engage with the profound challenges experienced by marginalized communities.

Related terms

Naturalism:

A literary movement closely related to realism that emphasizes a more scientific and deterministic view of human behavior, suggesting that environment, heredity, and social conditions control individuals.

Social Commentary: The use of literature to critique society, highlighting social issues such as inequality, injustice, and cultural norms to inspire change or provoke thought.

Character Development: The process by which characters in a story undergo changes in personality, perspective, or understanding as a result of the plot and their experiences.