American Realism

Definition

American Realism is a literary movement that emerged in the late 19th century, characterized by its focus on depicting everyday life and ordinary people in a truthful manner. This movement arose as a reaction against romanticism, emphasizing the mundane aspects of life and exploring the struggles of common individuals within society. American Realism sought to portray characters and settings that were relatable and realistic, often highlighting social issues and the complexities of human experience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. American Realism developed as a response to the upheaval caused by the Civil War and the rapid changes in American society during the late 19th century.
2. The movement emphasized a detailed and unembellished portrayal of everyday life, often focusing on middle and lower-class characters.
3. Prominent authors associated with American Realism include Mark Twain, Henry James, and William Dean Howells, who sought to capture the essence of American life.
4. Realist writers often employed techniques such as vernacular speech and precise descriptions to enhance authenticity in their storytelling.
5. The themes explored in American Realism frequently addressed social issues like class struggle, economic hardship, and the moral dilemmas faced by ordinary people.

Review Questions

• How does American Realism differ from Romanticism in terms of themes and character portrayal?
  • American Realism contrasts sharply with Romanticism by prioritizing the depiction of everyday life over idealized or extraordinary experiences. While Romanticism often emphasizes emotion, adventure, and individual heroics, realism focuses on the mundane aspects of existence and presents characters who are relatable and grounded in reality. Realist authors aim to reflect true human experiences, including struggles with societal issues, rather than romanticized notions of life.
• In what ways did the historical context of post-Civil War America influence the development of American Realism?
  • The post-Civil War era brought about significant social upheaval and transformation in America, which deeply influenced the development of American Realism. As the country faced rapid industrialization, urbanization, and shifts in social dynamics, realist writers responded by depicting these changes in their work. They sought to explore how these societal changes affected ordinary people's lives, highlighting themes of class struggle and economic hardship while providing a candid portrayal of American society during this tumultuous time.
• Evaluate how American Realism has impacted contemporary literature and its relevance today.
  • The impact of American Realism on contemporary literature is evident in its emphasis on authenticity and complex character development. Modern authors continue to explore real-life issues through detailed narratives that resonate with readers' experiences. By maintaining a focus on ordinary lives and societal challenges, contemporary literature carries forward the realist tradition, making it relevant today. Furthermore, elements of realism can be seen in various genres, from memoirs to social commentary fiction, reflecting ongoing societal issues much like those tackled by realist writers in the past.

Related terms

Naturalism:

A literary subgenre that emerged from realism, which suggests that human behavior is determined by environment, heredity, and social conditions.

Regionalism: A literary movement closely related to realism that focuses on specific geographical settings and the cultural characteristics of those regions.

Symbolism:

A literary movement that uses symbols to represent ideas and emotions, often standing in contrast to the straightforward depictions found in realism.