8.4 Global Variations of Realism and Naturalism
4 min read•july 24, 2024
Realism and naturalism took on unique forms across cultures, reflecting local influences and societal changes. From European social critiques to Latin American , these movements adapted to regional contexts while maintaining core principles of observation and representation.
Translations and literary exchanges spread realist and naturalist ideas globally, fostering cross-cultural dialogue. This legacy shaped modernist literature, influenced other art forms, and sparked critical approaches that continue to impact contemporary fiction and literary analysis.
Global Variations of Realism and Naturalism
Realism vs naturalism across cultures
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- European Realism and Naturalism
- French Realism emphasized objective observation of society exemplified by Balzac's detailed character studies and Flaubert's precise prose style ()
- Russian Realism delved into psychological depth and moral questions seen in Tolstoy's epic narratives () and Dostoevsky's complex characters ()
- English Naturalism focused on social and heredity explored in Hardy's rural settings (Tess of the d'Urbervilles) and Gissing's urban poverty portrayals ()
- American Realism and Naturalism
- pioneered vernacular language and regional settings () while refined (The Portrait of a Lady)
- and embraced naturalism depicting characters shaped by environment and instinct (, )
- Latin American Realism
- Magical Realism blended fantastical elements with realistic narratives in 's works ()
- Regional Realism captured local cultures and landscapes as seen in 's depictions of Bahia (Gabriela, Clove and Cinnamon)
- Asian Realism
- Japanese Naturalism explored individual psychology against societal norms in 's novels ()
- Chinese critiqued traditional values and advocated for modernization through 's short stories (The True Story of Ah Q)
- African Realism
- 's portrayal of Nigerian society examined cultural clash and colonialism ()
- 's depiction of apartheid-era South Africa explored racial tensions and social injustice ()
Local influences on literary movements
- European influences
- Industrial Revolution's impact on social structure led to focus on class divisions and urban life in literature
- Rise of scientific thought and positivism encouraged objective observation and deterministic views in writing
- American context
- Post-Civil War societal changes prompted exploration of regional differences and national identity
- Rapid urbanization and industrialization inspired critiques of materialism and social mobility (The Great Gatsby)
- Latin American factors
- Post-colonial experiences shaped narratives of national identity and
- Indigenous cultural traditions infused realism with mythical elements creating unique literary forms
- Asian developments
- Modernization and Westernization conflicts generated themes of tradition versus progress
- Traditional values versus social progress became central in works exploring generational gaps (Ba Jin's Family)
- African considerations
- Colonial and post-colonial experiences influenced narratives of cultural identity and political struggle
- Oral storytelling traditions integrated into written forms creating distinctive narrative styles
Translation in spreading literary ideas
- Translation of key realist and naturalist works
- Zola's influence on American naturalists spread through translations of (, Nana)
- Tolstoy's global impact through translations shaped views on realism and moral philosophy
- Literary journals and criticism
- International dissemination of realist principles through publications like (The Athenaeum, Revue des Deux Mondes)
- Cross-cultural debates on naturalism's merits facilitated exchange of ideas across borders
- Cultural adaptation of realist techniques
- Localization of narrative styles to fit different cultural contexts and reader expectations
- Incorporation of indigenous storytelling methods into realist frameworks creating hybrid forms
- Academic exchange and literary studies
- Comparative literature's role in spreading ideas across linguistic and cultural boundaries
- International conferences and symposia on realism and naturalism fostered global dialogue
Legacy of realism and naturalism
- Influence on modernist and postmodernist literature
- technique evolved from psychological realism (James Joyce's Ulysses)
- Fragmented narrative structures developed as a response to realism's linearity
- Contemporary realism in global fiction
- in Italian literature and cinema portrayed post-war social conditions
- in American fiction focused on marginalized characters and gritty settings (Raymond Carver's short stories)
- Impact on other artistic mediums
- Realism in theatre revolutionized acting through Stanislavski's method acting technique
- Naturalism in cinema influenced Italian neorealism depicting post-war societal struggles ()
- Critical approaches derived from realism and naturalism
- analyzed literature through lens of class struggle and economic determinism
- and environmental literature emerged from naturalism's focus on environment's influence
- Ethical and philosophical implications
- Debates on objectivity and subjectivity in representation challenged notions of truth in literature
- Questions of social responsibility in literature arose from realism's focus on societal issues
Key Terms to Review (41)
An American Tragedy: An American Tragedy refers to a narrative or literary framework that explores the conflicts and consequences arising from the pursuit of the American Dream, often resulting in moral dilemmas, social critique, and tragic outcomes for individuals. This concept embodies the tension between personal ambition and societal limitations, reflecting themes of class struggle, ethical choices, and the darker aspects of American life.
Bicycle Thieves: Bicycle Thieves is a landmark Italian film directed by Vittorio De Sica, released in 1948. The movie is a prime example of neorealism, depicting the struggles of a father and son in post-World War II Italy as they search for a stolen bicycle, essential for the father's job. This narrative not only illustrates the harsh realities of life but also reflects broader themes of poverty, desperation, and human dignity amidst societal collapse.
Chinua Achebe: Chinua Achebe was a prominent Nigerian novelist, poet, and critic known for his significant contributions to African literature and his role in shaping postcolonial discourse. His most famous novel, 'Things Fall Apart,' addresses the clash between traditional Igbo society and colonial influences, showcasing the complexities of identity, culture, and change in the context of modernity.
Crime and punishment: Crime and punishment refers to the moral and legal implications of wrongdoing and the subsequent consequences imposed by society. This concept delves into the psychological, social, and ethical dimensions of criminal behavior, often exploring themes of guilt, justice, and redemption. In literature, this theme is particularly prominent in realist novels where characters confront the repercussions of their actions within a complex societal framework.
Cultural hybridity: Cultural hybridity refers to the blending and merging of different cultural elements, resulting in new, dynamic identities and practices. This concept emphasizes how cultures interact and influence each other, often leading to unique expressions that challenge traditional boundaries and categories. It reflects the complexity of global interconnectedness and the ways in which individuals and communities negotiate their identities in a multicultural world.
Determinism: Determinism is the philosophical concept that all events, including moral choices, are determined completely by previously existing causes. It suggests that every action or decision is the result of prior conditions, including genetics, environment, and social influences. In literature, this idea shapes narratives by depicting characters whose fates are dictated by their circumstances and inherent traits.
Dirty realism: Dirty realism is a literary movement that focuses on the gritty and mundane aspects of everyday life, often highlighting the struggles of working-class characters in urban settings. It strips away romanticized portrayals of life and instead presents a raw, unfiltered view of reality, making it relatable yet uncomfortable for readers. This approach connects to broader global variations of realism and naturalism by challenging traditional narratives and emphasizing the harsh truths of existence.
Eco-criticism: Eco-criticism is a critical approach that examines the relationship between literature and the environment, analyzing how texts represent nature, environmental issues, and humanity's impact on the natural world. This perspective is often concerned with the ways in which literary works reflect, shape, and critique ecological ideas, encouraging readers to think about their connection to the environment. Eco-criticism intersects with realism and naturalism by addressing how these literary movements portray the environment and human interactions with it.
émile zola: Émile Zola was a French novelist and playwright, best known for his role in the development of Naturalism in literature during the late 19th century. His works often depicted the struggles of the working class and the influence of environment and heredity on human behavior, which are key aspects of both Realism and Naturalism. Zola's literary contributions highlight social issues, making him a significant figure in the critique of society through literature.
Family by Ba Jin: Family is a novel by Ba Jin that explores the conflicts and struggles within a traditional Chinese family during the early 20th century. The book highlights the tensions between old customs and modern values, showcasing the impact of societal changes on family dynamics, love, and individual desires.
Free indirect discourse: Free indirect discourse is a narrative technique that blends third-person narration with the subjective thoughts and feelings of a character, allowing readers to experience the story through the character's perspective while maintaining an external narrative voice. This style enhances realism by providing deeper insight into a character's inner life without fully shifting to first-person perspective, making it a powerful tool in both realism and naturalism.
Gabriel García Márquez: Gabriel García Márquez was a Colombian novelist and journalist, best known for his contributions to magical realism, a literary style that blends fantastical elements with realistic settings. His works often explore themes of solitude, love, and the interplay of history and myth, connecting deeply to various cultural movements and influencing literature across the globe.
Germinal: In literature, 'germinal' refers to the beginnings or early stages of something that has the potential to develop or grow. This term is often used in the context of narratives that depict the initial ideas or movements that pave the way for broader social or cultural changes, especially within realism and naturalism. It encapsulates themes of emergence and growth, connecting to societal issues and human experiences.
Gustave Flaubert: Gustave Flaubert was a French novelist best known for his meticulous style and influential works that epitomize the literary movements of realism and naturalism. His most famous novel, 'Madame Bovary,' explores themes of desire, dissatisfaction, and the constraints of society, showcasing the everyday struggles of its characters. Flaubert's commitment to portraying life as it is, without romantic embellishments, firmly establishes him as a central figure in defining the essence of realism and naturalism in literature.
Henry James: Henry James was an American-British author known for his complex narratives and exploration of consciousness, particularly in the context of realism. His work often examines the interplay between personal relationships and social expectations, reflecting a transition from 19th-century realism to modernism. James's unique style, characterized by intricate prose and psychological depth, offers valuable insights into both American and European literary traditions.
Huckleberry Finn: Huckleberry Finn is the central character in Mark Twain's novel 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,' published in 1884, which is considered a landmark work in American literature. The novel follows Huck's journey down the Mississippi River as he grapples with issues of race, morality, and identity, reflecting the broader themes of realism and naturalism that characterize American literature in the 19th century.
Jorge Amado: Jorge Amado was a prominent Brazilian author known for his vivid storytelling and rich portrayal of Brazilian culture, particularly the life and struggles of the marginalized in society. His works, often infused with elements of magic realism, explore themes of social justice, class struggle, and regional identity, reflecting the complexities of Brazilian life during the 20th century.
July's People: July's People is a novel by South African author Nadine Gordimer, published in 1981, which imagines a future where apartheid has collapsed and explores the complexities of race, power, and survival. The narrative follows the relationship between a white liberal family and their black servant, July, as they navigate a transformed society amidst chaos and violence. This work captures the global variations of realism and naturalism by presenting an intimate look at the personal struggles within a broader socio-political context.
Kokoro: Kokoro is a Japanese term that translates to 'heart' or 'spirit,' encompassing a deep emotional and psychological essence of a person. It reflects the inner thoughts, feelings, and consciousness, playing a significant role in understanding human behavior and emotions within literature and culture. In the context of realism and naturalism, kokoro emphasizes the complexity of human experiences and the interplay between individual psyche and societal influences.
Local color: Local color refers to the distinctive features and characteristics of a particular region or community, particularly as they are represented in literature and art. This concept emphasizes the unique cultural, social, and geographical elements that define a place, creating a vivid sense of authenticity and grounding the narrative within its specific setting.
Lu Xun: Lu Xun was a prominent Chinese writer, often considered the father of modern Chinese literature, who played a crucial role in shaping the literary landscape in the early 20th century. His works challenged traditional norms and critiqued society, reflecting themes of realism and naturalism as they addressed the struggles of the individual against oppressive societal forces.
Madame Bovary: Madame Bovary is a novel by Gustave Flaubert published in 1857 that tells the story of Emma Bovary, a woman who seeks to escape her mundane provincial life through romantic fantasies and material excess. This work is often cited as a seminal example of realism and naturalism in literature, illustrating the constraints of society and the psychological depths of its characters.
Magical realism: Magical realism is a literary genre that incorporates fantastical elements into otherwise realistic settings, creating a seamless blend of the ordinary and the extraordinary. This style allows authors to explore complex themes like identity, culture, and politics by intertwining magical elements with everyday life, often reflecting the unique perspectives of various cultural backgrounds.
Mark Twain: Mark Twain, the pen name of Samuel Langhorne Clemens, was an American author and humorist known for his distinct storytelling style and critical social commentary. His works often captured the essence of American life during the late 19th century, showcasing realism and naturalism through vivid characters and settings that reflect the societal issues of his time.
Marxist Literary Criticism: Marxist literary criticism is an approach that examines literature through the lens of Marxist theory, focusing on the social, economic, and political contexts that shape texts. It emphasizes the role of class struggle and the influence of socio-economic factors on literature, arguing that literary works often reflect the ideologies of their time and can perpetuate or challenge societal norms and power structures.
Nadine Gordimer: Nadine Gordimer was a South African writer and political activist known for her powerful novels and short stories that explored the complexities of life during apartheid. Her works often reflect on themes of social injustice, racial inequality, and the struggle for freedom, making her an important voice in global literature that addresses realism and naturalism.
Natsume Sōseki: Natsume Sōseki was a prominent Japanese novelist and scholar, often regarded as one of Japan's greatest literary figures. His works reflect the complexities of modern Japanese society during the Meiji era, blending traditional elements with Western influences, and examining themes of identity, alienation, and existentialism. Sōseki's literature has had a lasting impact on the development of the modern novel in Japan, influencing both national and global literary traditions.
Neo-realism: Neo-realism is a literary movement that emerged in the mid-20th century, emphasizing a more authentic representation of everyday life and social issues, often portraying the struggles of ordinary people. This movement builds on the foundations of realism but incorporates modern techniques and themes, reflecting the complexities of contemporary society. Neo-realism often includes a focus on the impact of socio-political contexts on individual lives, making it distinct from earlier forms of realism.
New Grub Street: New Grub Street refers to a literary movement in 19th-century England characterized by the rise of commercialized writing and a focus on the struggles of authors in a rapidly changing publishing landscape. It highlights the tension between artistic integrity and the demands of a market-driven society, reflecting broader themes of realism and naturalism in literature during that time.
One Hundred Years of Solitude: One Hundred Years of Solitude is a landmark novel by Gabriel García Márquez, published in 1967, that chronicles several generations of the Buendía family in the fictional town of Macondo. The novel blends magical realism with historical and social commentary, addressing themes of solitude, the cyclical nature of history, and the intersection of reality and myth, which connects to broader trends in literature including realism and naturalism.
Post-civil war literature: Post-civil war literature refers to the body of literary works produced in the United States following the Civil War, specifically from the late 19th century onward. This era was marked by a shift in themes and styles, focusing on realism and naturalism as writers sought to depict life with greater accuracy and attention to social issues. This literature often reflects the complexities of American society, including the struggles of various social classes, racial tensions, and the consequences of rapid industrialization.
Psychological realism: Psychological realism is a literary technique that emphasizes the inner thoughts, emotions, and motivations of characters, presenting them in a way that reflects their psychological depth and complexity. This approach allows writers to create a more authentic portrayal of human experience, often focusing on the intricacies of individual consciousness and how it shapes actions and relationships.
Social Realism: Social realism is an artistic and literary movement that focuses on depicting everyday life and the struggles of ordinary people, often highlighting social issues such as poverty, inequality, and injustice. This movement aims to provide a truthful representation of society, using realistic techniques to engage audiences and provoke thought about the conditions of the working class and marginalized groups.
Stephen Crane: Stephen Crane was an American author and poet, known for his significant contributions to the literary movements of realism and naturalism in the late 19th century. His works often depicted the harsh realities of life, exploring themes of war, survival, and human psychology, most famously through his novel 'The Red Badge of Courage'. Crane's innovative narrative techniques and his focus on the individual's struggles against larger social forces connected him deeply with the principles of these literary movements.
Stream of consciousness: Stream of consciousness is a narrative technique that captures the flow of thoughts and feelings in a character's mind, often presented in a seemingly chaotic or unstructured manner. This technique reflects the natural thought processes of characters, emphasizing their internal experiences and perceptions over traditional linear storytelling.
The Red Badge of Courage: The Red Badge of Courage is a novel written by Stephen Crane, published in 1895, that tells the story of a young soldier named Henry Fleming who grapples with fear and courage during the American Civil War. This work exemplifies the principles of realism by focusing on the psychological struggles of its protagonist, reflecting a shift toward more authentic and nuanced portrayals of human experience in literature. It serves as a critical exploration of the themes of bravery, identity, and the harsh realities of war, which resonate across various cultures and literary traditions.
Theodore Dreiser: Theodore Dreiser was an American novelist and journalist known for his contributions to the literary movements of realism and naturalism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His works often focus on the struggles of individuals against social and economic forces, portraying life with stark honesty and an unfiltered perspective, which aligns closely with the themes of realism and naturalism.
Things Fall Apart: Things Fall Apart is a novel by Chinua Achebe that tells the story of Okonkwo, a proud and ambitious Igbo leader, as he navigates the cultural changes brought about by British colonialism in Nigeria. The title symbolizes the disintegration of traditional Igbo society and the profound impact of European influence on indigenous cultures, reflecting broader themes of realism and naturalism in literature.
Ulysses by James Joyce: Ulysses is a modernist novel written by James Joyce, first published in 1922, that follows the experiences of its protagonist, Leopold Bloom, over the course of a single day in Dublin on June 16, 1904. The work employs stream-of-consciousness narrative, rich symbolism, and intricate character studies, making it a cornerstone of both modernist literature and the exploration of realism and naturalism in literature.
Verisimilitude: Verisimilitude refers to the appearance of being true or real in literature, creating a sense of authenticity and plausibility within a narrative. It helps readers connect to the story and characters by making them feel believable and relatable, often achieved through detailed descriptions, realistic dialogue, and character development. This concept is essential in distinguishing works that strive for realism from those that embrace fantasy or absurdity.
War and peace: War and peace refers to the contrasting states of conflict and harmony in human society, often explored through literature to depict the complexities of human experience. This concept delves into the impact of war on individuals and societies, highlighting themes of morality, sacrifice, and the quest for understanding amid chaos. The exploration of these themes can be found in various realist and naturalist works, where authors reflect on the societal consequences of conflict and the intricate balance between human struggles and aspirations for tranquility.