Naturalism

Definition

Naturalism is a literary and philosophical movement that emerged in the late 19th century, emphasizing the objective, scientific observation of the natural world and human behavior. It rejects supernatural or spiritual explanations in favor of rational, empirical analysis.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Naturalism was influenced by the scientific advancements and evolutionary theories of the late 19th century, particularly the work of Charles Darwin.
2. Naturalist writers aimed to depict human beings as products of their heredity and environment, driven by instincts and biological urges rather than free will.
3. Prominent naturalist authors include Theodore Dreiser, Stephen Crane, and Frank Norris, who explored themes of determinism, social Darwinism, and the struggle for survival.
4. Naturalism challenged the romanticized and idealized portrayals of human nature found in earlier literary movements, instead focusing on the harsh realities of life.
5. The naturalist approach often led to gritty, unsentimental depictions of poverty, disease, and the human condition, which were sometimes seen as controversial or shocking at the time.

Review Questions

• Explain how the principles of naturalism were reflected in the literature of the late 19th century.
  • Naturalist writers sought to apply the scientific method and principles of observation to their literary works, depicting human beings as products of their heredity and environment rather than as autonomous agents with free will. This led to unsentimental, often gritty portrayals of poverty, disease, and the harsh realities of life, challenging the romanticized views found in earlier literary movements. Prominent naturalist authors, such as Theodore Dreiser and Stephen Crane, explored themes of determinism and the struggle for survival, reflecting the influence of scientific advancements and evolutionary theories like those of Charles Darwin.
• Analyze the relationship between naturalism and the social and economic conditions of the late 19th century.
  • Naturalism emerged in the context of rapid industrialization, urbanization, and growing social and economic inequality in the late 19th century. Naturalist writers sought to objectively depict the harsh realities of life for the working class and the poor, who were often exploited by the capitalist system. The naturalist emphasis on determinism and the struggle for survival was influenced by the rise of social Darwinism, which was used to justify social inequality and the exploitation of the disadvantaged. Naturalist literature thus served as a critique of the social conditions of the time, highlighting the ways in which individuals were shaped by their environment and the forces of nature, rather than by their own free will.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of naturalism on American literature and its continued relevance in the modern era.
  • The influence of naturalism can be seen in the enduring popularity and critical acclaim of many 19th-century American authors, such as Theodore Dreiser, Stephen Crane, and Frank Norris. Their unflinching depictions of the human condition and the harsh realities of life have continued to resonate with readers and shape the development of American literature. Moreover, the naturalist emphasis on scientific observation and the rejection of supernatural explanations has had a lasting impact on the way we approach and understand the human experience. In the modern era, the themes and techniques of naturalism continue to be relevant, as writers grapple with the complexities of the human condition in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. The naturalist perspective, with its focus on the ways in which individuals are shaped by their environment and the forces of nature, remains a valuable lens through which to examine the human experience.

Related terms

Realism:

A literary movement that aimed to depict reality and everyday life as accurately as possible, without idealization or romanticism.

Determinism: The belief that all events, including human actions and choices, are determined by prior events and environmental factors, leaving no room for free will.

Social Darwinism:

The application of Charles Darwin's theory of natural selection to human society, often used to justify social inequality and the exploitation of the poor.