Realism

Definition

Realism is a literary movement that emerged in the mid-19th century, focusing on the depiction of everyday life and society without idealization or romanticism. It emphasizes ordinary characters and events, portraying life as it truly is, often highlighting social issues and the complexities of human experience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Realism gained prominence as a reaction against the romantic movement, which idealized life and emphasized emotion over reason.
2. Key figures in realism include authors like Gustave Flaubert, Leo Tolstoy, and Henry James, who focused on detailed character development and intricate plots.
3. Realism often portrays common people and their struggles, reflecting the social changes brought about by the Industrial Revolution and urbanization.
4. This movement led to the rise of the novel as a dominant literary form, with writers exploring psychological depth and moral complexity in their characters.
5. In poetry, realism focused on everyday experiences and themes, with poets like Thomas Hardy emphasizing the harsh realities of life.

Review Questions

• How does realism differ from romanticism in literature?
  • Realism differs from romanticism primarily in its approach to depicting life. While romanticism idealizes emotions, nature, and heroic individualism, realism focuses on portraying everyday life as it is, without embellishment. Realists aim to present an accurate reflection of society, including its flaws and struggles, often addressing social issues that arise from urbanization and class disparities. This shift reflects a broader change in literature towards an emphasis on authenticity over idealized narratives.
• Discuss the role of social commentary in realist literature and how it reflects the socio-economic conditions of its time.
  • Social commentary is central to realist literature as it highlights and critiques societal issues such as class inequality, gender roles, and the impact of industrialization. Authors often use their narratives to shed light on the harsh realities faced by ordinary people, providing insights into their struggles and aspirations. This focus not only reflects the socio-economic conditions of the 19th century but also encourages readers to engage with these critical issues. Through their characters' experiences, realist writers invite discussions about reform and change within society.
• Evaluate the influence of realism on modern literature and how it continues to shape contemporary narratives.
  • Realism has significantly influenced modern literature by establishing a foundation for writers to explore complex character psychology and social dynamics. Its emphasis on authenticity has paved the way for contemporary narratives that address real-world issues through detailed storytelling. Today’s authors draw upon realist techniques to depict the intricacies of everyday life while tackling themes such as identity, culture clash, and social justice. This enduring legacy highlights realism's role in creating literature that resonates with current audiences by grounding stories in relatable experiences.

Related terms

Naturalism:

A literary movement closely related to realism, naturalism explores the influence of environment, heredity, and social conditions on human behavior, often depicting a more deterministic view of life.

Regionalism: A literary genre that focuses on specific geographical areas, emphasizing the unique characteristics, dialects, and social customs of those regions to create a sense of place.

Social Commentary: The act of using literature to comment on societal issues and challenges, often seen in realist works that address class struggles, gender roles, and political dynamics.