key term - Darwinism

Definition

Darwinism refers to the theory of biological evolution developed by Charles Darwin, which posits that species evolve over time through natural selection, where traits that enhance survival and reproduction become more common in successive generations. This concept of evolution had a profound impact on various fields, including literature, leading to a focus on realism and the portrayal of human behavior as influenced by environmental factors and heredity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Darwin's seminal work, 'On the Origin of Species,' published in 1859, laid the groundwork for evolutionary biology and introduced key concepts like natural selection.
2. The impact of Darwinism extended beyond biology, influencing the Naturalism literary movement, which emphasized a realistic portrayal of life and the role of environment and heredity in shaping character.
3. Naturalism in literature often reflects themes of struggle for existence and portrays characters as products of their environment, reflecting Darwin's ideas about the survival of species.
4. Darwinism challenged traditional views on creation and humanity's place in the world, leading to significant debates in both scientific and religious communities during the late 19th century.
5. In literature, authors such as Émile Zola and Stephen Crane employed Darwinian principles to depict characters' struggles against societal forces and natural laws.

Review Questions

• How did Darwinism influence the themes found in Naturalist literature?
  • Darwinism significantly influenced Naturalist literature by introducing themes related to survival, adaptation, and the impact of environment on human behavior. Authors began to portray characters as products of their heredity and surroundings, emphasizing how these factors shape individual destiny. This focus on realism and determinism showcased struggles within society and nature, mirroring Darwin's ideas about natural selection and the competitive aspects of life.
• Discuss how the concept of 'Survival of the Fittest' relates to character development in Naturalist works.
  • 'Survival of the Fittest' relates closely to character development in Naturalist literature as it highlights how characters are often depicted facing overwhelming challenges posed by their environment. These characters usually struggle against social conditions or natural forces that dictate their lives, demonstrating that only those with advantageous traits can thrive. This struggle serves as a reflection of Darwin's principles, illustrating how external circumstances and inherent characteristics determine an individual's fate.
• Evaluate the impact of Darwinism on societal views during the late 19th century and its implications for literary movements like Naturalism.
  • Darwinism fundamentally altered societal views in the late 19th century by challenging conventional beliefs regarding creation and humanity's unique status in nature. It led to greater acceptance of scientific explanations for existence while stirring controversy within religious contexts. This shift prompted literary movements like Naturalism to incorporate these evolutionary concepts into their narratives, focusing on realism and human struggles as reflections of environmental influences. The result was a more cynical perspective on life where characters grappled with forces beyond their control, mirroring society's evolving understanding of human nature in light of Darwinian theory.

Related terms

Natural Selection: The process by which individuals with favorable traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, leading to the gradual evolution of species.

Survival of the Fittest:

A phrase often associated with Darwinism that describes the idea that only those organisms best adapted to their environment will survive and reproduce.

Determinism:

The philosophical belief that all events, including human actions, are determined by previously existing causes, often linked to the influence of genetics and environment in shaping behavior.