Literary realism

Definition

Literary realism is a literary movement that emerged in the 19th century, focusing on the representation of everyday life and ordinary people with an emphasis on accuracy and authenticity. It sought to portray life as it truly is, often highlighting the social conditions and struggles of characters, reflecting the complexities of reality rather than idealized or romanticized versions of life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Literary realism emerged in response to romanticism, moving away from idealized portrayals to focus on the mundane aspects of life.
2. Key figures in literary realism include authors like Gustave Flaubert, Leo Tolstoy, and Henry James, each contributing distinct styles and themes to the movement.
3. Realist literature often employs detailed descriptions of settings and characters to create a sense of authenticity and immerse readers in the world depicted.
4. The movement also aimed to explore complex social issues such as class struggles, gender roles, and moral dilemmas within society.
5. Literary realism paved the way for later movements like modernism, which continued to question reality and representation in literature.

Review Questions

• How does literary realism differ from romanticism in its portrayal of life and characters?
  • Literary realism differs from romanticism primarily in its focus on depicting everyday life and ordinary characters without embellishment. While romanticism idealizes emotions, nature, and heroic figures, realism aims for accuracy and authenticity by highlighting the struggles and complexities of common people's lives. Realist authors often address social issues directly, providing a critical lens on society that contrasts sharply with the often fantastical elements found in romantic literature.
• Discuss how narrative perspective plays a crucial role in shaping the reader's understanding of characters in literary realism.
  • Narrative perspective in literary realism is typically objective, allowing readers to observe characters' experiences without overt authorial commentary or bias. This approach enables readers to form their own judgments about characters based on their actions and circumstances. By presenting events through a neutral lens, realist authors create a more immersive experience, allowing readers to engage deeply with the characters' internal struggles and social environments.
• Evaluate the impact of literary realism on modern literature and its relevance in contemporary storytelling.
  • Literary realism has had a profound impact on modern literature by establishing a foundation for authentic character development and intricate plots rooted in real-life experiences. Its influence can be seen in contemporary storytelling that continues to prioritize truthfulness over idealization. Many current authors adopt realist techniques to explore complex social issues, mirroring the struggles faced by individuals today. This legacy persists as literature serves as a reflection of societal realities and challenges, making realism relevant across various genres.

Related terms

Naturalism:

A literary style that emerged from realism, emphasizing a more scientific and deterministic view of human behavior, often portraying characters as products of their environment and heredity.

Social Criticism: The practice of analyzing societal structures and issues through literature, often used by realist authors to highlight social injustices and advocate for change.

Narrative Perspective: The vantage point from which a story is told, which in realism often adopts an objective tone, presenting characters' experiences without authorial intrusion or bias.