Psychological realism

Definition

Psychological realism is a literary technique that focuses on the inner thoughts, feelings, and motivations of characters, aiming to depict their psychological states in a realistic and nuanced manner. This approach allows for a deeper understanding of characters' complexities and conflicts, often reflecting societal issues through their personal experiences and mental landscapes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Machado de Assis is considered a pioneer of psychological realism in literature, using this technique to explore the complexities of human consciousness.
2. His characters often grapple with their inner desires, moral dilemmas, and social pressures, reflecting the broader societal context of Brazil in the late 19th century.
3. Assis employs unreliable narrators, which adds layers to his stories by challenging readers to question the characters' perceptions and motives.
4. The emphasis on psychological depth allows Assis to critique social norms and expectations, particularly in relation to class and race in Brazilian society.
5. Psychological realism has had a lasting impact on literature, influencing writers in the 20th century who sought to delve into the human psyche and explore themes of identity and existence.

Review Questions

• How does Machado de Assis utilize psychological realism to develop his characters in his works?
  • Machado de Assis employs psychological realism by delving deeply into the inner lives of his characters, revealing their thoughts, emotions, and motivations. This technique allows readers to understand the complexities of their personalities and the conflicting forces they face, such as societal expectations and personal desires. By showcasing these internal struggles, Assis provides a rich portrayal of human nature that resonates with readers.
• Discuss how psychological realism in Machado de Assis's works serves as a tool for social critique.
  • Psychological realism in Assis's stories serves as a powerful means of social critique by highlighting how individual experiences are shaped by societal norms and pressures. His characters often find themselves at odds with the prevailing values of their time, particularly regarding issues of class and race. By focusing on their internal conflicts, Assis sheds light on the deeper implications of these societal structures, encouraging readers to reflect on their own contexts.
• Evaluate the significance of psychological realism in shaping the legacy of Machado de Assis's influence on 20th-century literature.
  • The significance of psychological realism in shaping Machado de Assis's legacy lies in its innovative approach to character portrayal and narrative structure. This technique laid the groundwork for future writers who sought to explore human consciousness and the intricacies of personal identity. Assis's influence can be seen in 20th-century literature as authors embraced psychological depth to address complex themes such as alienation, existentialism, and the fragmented self, demonstrating how he transformed literary conventions.

Related terms

Stream of Consciousness: A narrative technique that attempts to capture the flow of thoughts and feelings running through a character's mind, often presenting a fragmented or nonlinear perspective.

Character Development:

The process by which a character is transformed or grows throughout a story, allowing readers to see their evolution in response to internal and external conflicts.

Social Realism: A literary movement that seeks to represent everyday life and societal issues accurately, often highlighting the struggles of the working class and marginalized communities.