Naturalism

Definition

Naturalism is a literary and artistic movement that emerged in the late 19th century, characterized by a focus on depicting reality as closely as possible, often emphasizing the influence of environment and heredity on human behavior. This movement sought to portray life with scientific precision, moving beyond romanticism's idealized views and exploring the darker, more deterministic aspects of existence.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Naturalism arose as a response to the limitations of realism, pushing for an even more scientific approach to literature and art.
2. It often dealt with themes such as poverty, violence, and the struggles of the lower classes, highlighting societal issues.
3. Naturalists believed that human behavior was shaped by biological and environmental factors rather than free will.
4. The movement was heavily influenced by advancements in science, particularly Darwin's theories on evolution and heredity.
5. Key works of naturalism include novels like Zola's 'Germinal' and Theodore Dreiser's 'Sister Carrie,' which illustrate its core principles.

Review Questions

• How does naturalism differ from realism in its approach to depicting life and human behavior?
  • Naturalism extends the principles of realism by incorporating a more scientific perspective that emphasizes determinism. While realism focuses on accurate representations of everyday life, naturalism digs deeper into the influence of environment and heredity on individuals. This means that naturalist works often explore darker themes and present characters as products of their circumstances rather than as independent agents making choices.
• Discuss the impact of scientific advancements on the development of naturalism as a movement in literature and art.
  • Scientific advancements, particularly in biology and psychology, played a significant role in shaping naturalism. The theories of Charles Darwin regarding evolution influenced naturalist writers to view human beings as products of their environment and genetics. This perspective led to a focus on how these factors determine human actions and relationships, resulting in narratives that highlight social issues and struggles faced by individuals influenced by their circumstances.
• Evaluate the legacy of naturalism in contemporary literature and how it informs modern storytelling.
  • The legacy of naturalism can be seen in contemporary literature through its continued exploration of social issues and character development shaped by external factors. Modern writers often draw upon naturalistic techniques to create complex characters who navigate societal constraints or systemic challenges. This influence is evident in genres such as realism and gritty fiction, where authors maintain a focus on authenticity while addressing themes related to inequality, identity, and the human condition, ensuring that the conversation around determinism and environment remains relevant.

Related terms

Realism:

A movement in art and literature that aimed to represent everyday life and society as it was, avoiding embellishments or romanticized portrayals.

Determinism: The philosophical belief that all events, including human actions, are ultimately determined by causes external to the will, often emphasized in naturalist works.

Emile Zola:

A French novelist who was a key figure in the naturalist movement, known for his detailed studies of life in Paris and his emphasis on the role of environment and heredity.