Naturalism

Definition

Naturalism is a literary movement that emerged in the late 19th century, emphasizing a detailed and realistic portrayal of life, often highlighting the influence of environment, heredity, and social conditions on human behavior. It seeks to depict life without idealization or romanticism, presenting characters as products of their environment and circumstances. This approach is particularly significant in the context of Meiji era literature and the broader categories of realism and naturalism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Naturalism often uses scientific principles and theories, such as Darwin's theory of evolution, to inform character development and plot structures.
2. In Meiji era literature, authors like Natsume Sōseki and Mori Ōgai adopted naturalistic elements to explore the struggles of individuals against societal pressures.
3. Naturalism focuses on the harsh realities of life, showcasing characters who are often at the mercy of their circumstances and environments.
4. The movement is marked by its use of detailed descriptions and observational techniques, aiming for a documentary-like quality in storytelling.
5. Critics of naturalism argue that its deterministic perspective can lead to nihilism, questioning the possibility of free will or individual agency.

Review Questions

• How does naturalism differ from realism in literature?
  • Naturalism differs from realism primarily in its focus on the influence of environment and heredity on characters' actions. While realism aims to depict everyday life accurately and might include a range of social classes, naturalism takes a more deterministic approach. It emphasizes that characters are often powerless against their circumstances, portraying a more pessimistic view of human existence. Naturalist works typically explore deeper themes related to survival and the human condition.
• Discuss how Natsume Sōseki's works reflect the principles of naturalism.
  • Natsume Sōseki's works often illustrate naturalistic principles by portraying characters who struggle with their identities amidst changing social landscapes. In novels like 'Kusamakura,' he explores how environment and societal expectations shape individual experiences. His focus on psychological depth alongside external pressures allows readers to see characters as products of their surroundings. This blend of personal conflict and environmental influence aligns with the core tenets of naturalism.
• Evaluate the impact of naturalism on modern East Asian literature and its relevance today.
  • Naturalism has significantly shaped modern East Asian literature by providing authors with tools to address societal issues and human experiences in a nuanced way. Its emphasis on realism invites writers to engage with complex themes such as identity, class struggle, and existential despair. In contemporary contexts, naturalistic elements can be seen in various genres, including graphic novels and films, where characters often face societal challenges that reflect ongoing issues in their environments. The legacy of naturalism encourages an exploration of authenticity in storytelling that remains relevant in today's literary landscape.

Related terms

Realism: A literary movement focused on representing everyday life and society as it is, often addressing social issues and the complexities of human experiences.

Determinism: The philosophical concept suggesting that all events, including human actions, are determined by previously existing causes, often explored in naturalistic literature.

Pessimism: A worldview that emphasizes negative outcomes and the darker aspects of human existence, frequently reflected in naturalistic works.