Realism

Definition

Realism is a philosophical and artistic movement that emphasizes the representation of reality, focusing on depicting subjects as they are without idealization. It seeks to portray everyday life and ordinary people, often highlighting social issues and the human condition. In both philosophy and art, realism represents a departure from earlier traditions that favored abstract ideals or exaggerated forms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Realism emerged in the mid-19th century as a response to Romanticism, which idealized subjects and emotions.
2. Major realist philosophers questioned traditional notions of truth, emphasizing empirical evidence and observable phenomena.
3. In the visual arts, realism is exemplified by artists like Gustave Courbet, who portrayed scenes of everyday life with stark authenticity.
4. Realism influenced literature significantly, leading authors like Honoré de Balzac and Leo Tolstoy to depict realistic characters and social conditions in their works.
5. The rise of realism coincided with significant societal changes in Europe, including industrialization and urbanization, which shifted focus toward the experiences of the common person.

Review Questions

• How did realism differ from earlier artistic movements like Romanticism in its approach to subject matter?
  • Realism set itself apart from Romanticism by rejecting idealization and emotional exaggeration. While Romantic artists focused on dramatic themes and the expression of intense feelings, realists aimed to depict life as it truly was, often portraying ordinary people and everyday situations. This shift emphasized authenticity and sought to highlight social realities rather than romantic notions of heroism or beauty.
• Discuss the role of major realist philosophers in shaping modern thought during the 19th century.
  • Major realist philosophers played a crucial role in challenging established norms by advocating for an empirical approach to knowledge. They emphasized that understanding should be based on observable phenomena rather than metaphysical speculation. This focus on empiricism influenced various fields, including science, sociology, and ethics, contributing to a more pragmatic view of human experience during a time of rapid societal change.
• Evaluate the impact of realism on literature and how it transformed narrative styles in the 19th century.
  • Realism significantly transformed literature by shifting narrative styles towards detailed character development and intricate social settings. Authors began to explore the lives of ordinary people, focusing on their struggles and societal roles rather than heroic or fantastical themes. This change resulted in more relatable stories that addressed real-life issues such as class disparity and moral dilemmas, marking a departure from previous literary conventions and laying the groundwork for modern narrative techniques.

Related terms

Naturalism:

A style of art and literature that suggests a detailed, unembellished depiction of the natural world and human life, often emphasizing a scientific understanding of nature.

Empiricism: The theory that knowledge comes primarily from sensory experience, emphasizing observation and evidence in forming ideas and beliefs.

Humanism: A cultural and intellectual movement during the Renaissance that emphasized the study of classical texts and focused on human potential and achievements.