Naturalism

Definition

Naturalism is a style and theory in literature and art that seeks to depict reality as accurately and objectively as possible, often emphasizing the influence of environment, heredity, and social conditions on human behavior. This approach aims to portray life with a high level of detail, highlighting the gritty and unembellished aspects of existence, which can lead to a sense of determinism where characters are often seen as products of their surroundings. In dramatic storytelling, naturalism strives for authenticity in dialogue, character development, and setting.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Naturalism emerged as a literary movement in the late 19th century as an extension of realism, influenced by scientific theories such as Darwinism.
2. Naturalist works often focus on lower-class characters and their struggles, depicting their lives with unflinching honesty.
3. Authors like Émile Zola and Stephen Crane are key figures in naturalism, known for their detailed descriptions and complex characters shaped by their environments.
4. Naturalism suggests that human beings are governed by instincts and external factors rather than free will, leading to a more pessimistic view of human nature.
5. In theater, naturalism often involves realistic sets and props, with an emphasis on how setting influences character behavior.

Review Questions

• How does naturalism differ from realism in its approach to storytelling and character development?
  • While both naturalism and realism aim to represent life accurately, naturalism goes further by emphasizing the deterministic factors that shape human behavior. Realism presents characters in everyday situations without focusing on underlying influences like environment or heredity. In contrast, naturalist works delve into how these factors affect characters' lives, often leading to a more pessimistic view where individuals are seen as products of their circumstances rather than agents of their own choices.
• What role does environment play in naturalist narratives, and how does this influence the portrayal of characters?
  • In naturalist narratives, the environment plays a crucial role in shaping characters' actions and fates. The setting is depicted in great detail, illustrating how socio-economic conditions, geographical location, and cultural influences determine a character's opportunities and challenges. This focus on environmental factors reveals the harsh realities of life and highlights how individuals are often trapped by their circumstances, resulting in a narrative where personal agency is limited.
• Evaluate the impact of naturalism on contemporary storytelling in film and television. How does this movement continue to influence modern narratives?
  • Naturalism has left a lasting impact on contemporary storytelling in film and television by encouraging creators to focus on authenticity and realism in their narratives. Modern films often adopt a naturalistic style through realistic dialogue, relatable characters, and settings that reflect real-life issues. This approach allows audiences to connect with the stories on a deeper level, as they see their own experiences mirrored in the characters' struggles. By maintaining the core principles of naturalism, today's creators continue to challenge viewers' perceptions of life and highlight the complexities of human existence.

Related terms

Realism:

A movement in art and literature that focuses on representing everyday activities and life accurately without idealization.

Determinism: The philosophical belief that all events, including human actions, are determined by previously existing causes, often linked to the influences of environment and heredity in naturalism.

Symbolism:

A literary movement that emphasizes the use of symbols and metaphors to convey deeper meanings, contrasting with the straightforward representation found in naturalism.