Literary Realism

Definition

Literary realism is a style of writing that aims to represent life and society as they truly are, focusing on everyday experiences and ordinary people. It emerged as a reaction against romanticism, emphasizing the depiction of reality, social issues, and human psychology in a straightforward manner. This approach is closely associated with key figures who sought to reflect the complexities of contemporary life in their works, making it especially relevant in discussions about societal change during tumultuous historical periods.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Literary realism emerged in the mid-19th century as writers began to focus on depicting the everyday lives of common people rather than idealized or heroic figures.
2. Key authors like Lu Xun, Hu Shi, and Chen Duxiu utilized literary realism to critique societal norms and highlight social injustices during the Republican era in China.
3. Realist literature often incorporates detailed descriptions and character development, allowing readers to engage deeply with the struggles of the characters and their societal context.
4. This style is significant for its role in shaping modern Chinese literature, as it encouraged writers to address pressing social issues such as poverty, class struggle, and national identity.
5. Literary realism laid the groundwork for later literary movements, influencing writers who sought to depict psychological depth and complex narratives in response to an evolving society.

Review Questions

• How did literary realism serve as a reaction against romanticism in the context of early 20th-century Chinese literature?
  • Literary realism emerged as a response to romanticism by prioritizing authenticity over idealization. In early 20th-century Chinese literature, this meant focusing on real-life struggles and social issues rather than glorified depictions of life. Writers like Lu Xun challenged traditional narratives by portraying the harsh realities faced by ordinary people, thus fostering a more critical understanding of society during times of significant change.
• What role did literary realism play in addressing social and political themes during the Republican era in China?
  • Literary realism was crucial in addressing social and political themes during the Republican era as it provided a platform for writers to engage with contemporary issues. Authors used their works to critique societal norms, expose injustices, and reflect on national identity. Through realistic portrayals of everyday life, they highlighted struggles such as poverty and class conflict, which resonated deeply with readers seeking change in a rapidly transforming society.
• Evaluate the impact of key figures like Lu Xun, Hu Shi, and Chen Duxiu on the development of literary realism in modern Chinese literature.
  • Lu Xun, Hu Shi, and Chen Duxiu significantly shaped the development of literary realism in modern Chinese literature by using their writings to address pressing social issues. Lu Xun's works exposed the dark realities of life under feudalism, prompting critical reflection among readers. Hu Shi advocated for a vernacular language that made literature more accessible, allowing realistic themes to reach wider audiences. Chen Duxiu's emphasis on intellectual discourse further propelled realistic literature as a means of social reform, solidifying its importance in shaping contemporary thought and cultural identity.

Related terms

Naturalism:

A literary movement that extends realism by incorporating the influence of environment and heredity on human behavior, often depicting more pessimistic views of human life.

Modernism: A cultural and literary movement that arose in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by a break from traditional forms and an exploration of new perspectives on reality.

Social Commentary: The use of literature to provide insight or critique regarding social issues, often revealing the struggles and injustices faced by individuals in society.