Realism emerged in the mid-19th century as a response to rapid social change. It aimed to depict the world as it truly was, without romanticization, influenced by scientific thinking and empirical observation.
The movement focused on ordinary people and everyday situations, rejecting idealized portrayals. Realist artists and writers sought to analyze human behavior and social conditions with scientific rigor, emphasizing objective representation and contemporary issues.
Origins of realism
Emerged in the mid-19th century as a response to rapid industrialization and social change
Sought to depict the world as it truly was, without romanticization or idealization
Influenced by the rise of scientific thinking and empirical observation
Historical context
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Developed during a period of significant social and economic upheaval ()
led to new social problems and class struggles
Advances in technology and science challenged traditional beliefs and worldviews
Reaction to romanticism
Rejected romantic notions of idealized beauty and heroic individuals
Focused on ordinary people and everyday situations instead of grand historical events
Emphasized objective observation over subjective emotional expression
Influence of scientific method
Adopted a more systematic approach to observing and representing reality
Incorporated principles of empiricism and objectivity in artistic and literary works
Sought to analyze human behavior and social conditions with scientific rigor
Key characteristics of realism
Aimed to represent the world as it actually appeared, without embellishment
Focused on contemporary social issues and the lives of ordinary people
Rejected idealized or romanticized portrayals in favor of accuracy and authenticity
Objective representation
Strived for accurate depiction of physical reality and human behavior
Avoided sentimental or melodramatic elements in storytelling and visual arts
Emphasized careful observation and detailed description of people, places, and events
Focus on everyday life
Depicted ordinary people engaged in common activities (factory workers, farmers)
Explored mundane aspects of daily existence rather than extraordinary events
Highlighted social conditions and challenges faced by different classes
Rejection of idealization
Portrayed human flaws and imperfections rather than presenting idealized figures
Addressed controversial or taboo subjects previously avoided in art and literature
Challenged conventional notions of beauty and morality in artistic representation
Realism in literature
Developed as a literary movement in the mid-19th century, primarily in Europe and America
Sought to portray life and society with accuracy and objectivity
Influenced by advances in science, psychology, and social theory
Notable realist authors
pioneered realism in French literature with his detailed social observations
's "Madame Bovary" exemplified realist style and themes
(Mary Ann Evans) explored psychological realism in novels like "Middlemarch"
depicted Russian society with remarkable depth and complexity
Common themes and subjects
Class struggles and social inequality in industrialized societies
Impact of economic forces on individual lives and communities
Psychological complexity of characters and their motivations
Critique of social conventions and moral hypocrisy
Literary techniques
Detailed description of settings and characters to create a sense of
Use of dialect and colloquial language to capture authentic speech patterns
Omniscient narration to provide objective perspectives on events and characters
Incorporation of social and historical context to ground stories in reality
Realism in visual arts
Emerged as a reaction against idealized academic painting and romantic excess
Sought to depict the world as it appeared to the naked eye, without embellishment
Focused on contemporary subjects and social issues rather than historical or mythological themes
Realist painters
Gustave Courbet pioneered realism in French painting with works like "The Stone Breakers"
Jean-François Millet focused on peasant life and rural labor in his paintings
Édouard Manet bridged realism and impressionism with controversial works like "Olympia"
Ilya Repin represented Russian realism with his powerful social and historical paintings
Subject matter in paintings
Depicted laborers, peasants, and working-class individuals in their everyday environments
Explored urban scenes and modern life in industrialized cities
Portrayed social issues such as poverty, exploitation, and inequality
Included landscapes that emphasized the natural world without romantic idealization
Techniques and style
Used careful observation and precise rendering to capture visual reality
Employed a more muted color palette compared to romantic or academic painting
Focused on capturing light and shadow to create a sense of depth and atmosphere
Avoided idealized forms in favor of naturalistic representation of human figures
Social and political aspects
Realism often served as a form of social commentary and critique
Addressed pressing issues of the time, including industrialization, urbanization, and class conflict
Sought to raise awareness about social injustices and promote reform
Critique of society
Exposed harsh realities of industrial labor and urban poverty
Challenged traditional power structures and social hierarchies
Questioned prevailing moral and religious values of the time
Class consciousness
Highlighted disparities between different social classes
Depicted the struggles and aspirations of working-class individuals
Explored the impact of economic systems on personal and social relationships
Documentation of social issues
Served as a form of visual and literary journalism, recording contemporary life
Addressed topics such as child labor, prostitution, and alcoholism
Influenced public opinion and contributed to social reform movements
Realism vs naturalism
emerged as an offshoot of realism in the late 19th century
Both movements shared a commitment to objective representation of reality
Naturalism took a more deterministic view of human behavior and social conditions
Similarities and differences
Realism focused on accurate depiction of observable reality
Naturalism emphasized the role of heredity and environment in shaping human destiny
Both rejected romantic idealization, but naturalism was often more pessimistic in outlook
Key naturalist writers
pioneered naturalism in French literature with works like "Germinal"
explored naturalistic themes in American novels such as "Sister Carrie"
combined realism and naturalism in works like "The Red Badge of Courage"
Philosophical underpinnings
Influenced by Darwin's theory of evolution and scientific determinism
Viewed human behavior as shaped by biological and environmental factors
Sought to apply scientific methods to the study of society and human nature
Impact on later movements
Realism laid the groundwork for many subsequent artistic and literary movements
Influenced the development of , , and documentary styles
Continues to shape contemporary approaches to representation in various media
Influence on modernism
Realism's focus on contemporary life paved the way for modernist experimentation
Rejection of idealization influenced modernist critiques of traditional artistic forms
Psychological realism contributed to modernist explorations of subjective experience
Legacy in contemporary art
Photorealism and hyperrealism extend realist techniques in painting and sculpture
Social realism continues to address political and economic issues in visual art
Neo-realist movements in literature and film draw on realist traditions
Realism in photography
Photography was seen as the ultimate realist medium, capturing reality directly
Documentarians like used photography to expose social conditions
Photojournalism emerged as a powerful form of visual realism in the 20th century
Criticism and debates
Realism faced various critiques and challenges from both artists and critics
Debates arose over the nature of reality and the possibility of truly objective representation
Questions emerged about the ethical implications of realist depictions of social issues
Limitations of realism
Critics argued that realism oversimplified complex social and psychological realities
Some felt that the focus on mundane details neglected higher artistic or spiritual concerns
Debates arose over whether true objectivity was possible in artistic representation
Ethical considerations
Raised questions about the exploitation of subjects in realist art and literature
Concerns emerged about the potential voyeurism in depicting poverty and suffering
Debates over the responsibility of artists to effect social change through their work
Realism vs other artistic movements
Contrasted with 's emphasis on emotion and imagination
Challenged by impressionism's focus on subjective perceptions of light and color
Influenced but also critiqued by modernist movements seeking new forms of expression
Realism across cultures
Realism manifested differently in various national and cultural contexts
Reflected specific social, political, and economic conditions of different regions
Influenced and was influenced by cross-cultural exchanges and global developments
American realism
Mark Twain pioneered realism in American literature with works like "Huckleberry Finn"
Winslow Homer depicted American rural and maritime life in his paintings
Regional realism explored diverse American landscapes and communities
European realism
French realism set many standards for the movement (Courbet, Flaubert)
Russian realism addressed social and political issues unique to Tsarist Russia
British realism often focused on class dynamics and social mobility
Realism in non-Western contexts
Japanese artists like Hashiguchi Goyo incorporated realist techniques in ukiyo-e prints
Latin American realism often addressed issues of colonialism and national identity
African realism emerged in post-colonial literature and art, exploring cultural tensions
Psychological realism
Focused on depicting the inner lives and mental states of characters
Influenced by developments in psychology and theories of human consciousness
Sought to represent the complexity of human thought and emotion
Interior lives of characters
Explored characters' motivations, fears, and desires in depth
Depicted internal conflicts and psychological struggles
Used techniques like internal monologue to reveal characters' thoughts
Stream of consciousness technique
Developed by writers like James Joyce and Virginia Woolf
Attempted to represent the flow of thoughts and sensations in the human mind
Challenged traditional narrative structures and linear storytelling
Influence on modern psychology
Realist literature often anticipated or paralleled psychological theories
Provided case studies and insights into human behavior for early psychologists
Contributed to the development of psychoanalytic approaches to literature and art
Key Terms to Review (25)
Alienation: Alienation refers to the feeling of being disconnected or estranged from one's self, society, or work. It often manifests as a sense of powerlessness and isolation that arises from living in a complex, modern society where individuals feel they lack control over their lives. This concept is crucial for understanding various social, economic, and artistic movements as it explores how individuals relate to their environment and the consequences of industrialization and capitalism.
Class struggle: Class struggle refers to the ongoing conflict between different social classes, particularly between the ruling class (bourgeoisie) and the working class (proletariat). This concept highlights how economic inequalities and power dynamics shape society, leading to tensions and conflicts that drive historical change. Understanding class struggle is crucial for analyzing revolutions, social movements, and the development of ideologies aimed at addressing these disparities.
Consumerism: Consumerism is the social and economic ideology that encourages the acquisition of goods and services in ever-increasing amounts. It promotes the idea that personal happiness and social status can be achieved through the consumption of material goods, often leading to a culture focused on shopping and material wealth. This mindset has shaped societal values, influencing everything from identity formation to economic practices.
émile zola: Émile Zola was a French novelist and playwright, known for his role as a prominent figure in the literary movement of Naturalism. His works focus on depicting life with an unfiltered lens, often emphasizing the influence of environment and heredity on human behavior. Zola's commitment to realism led him to explore social issues, making him an essential voice in literature during the period of Realism.
Existentialism: Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice, asserting that people define their own meaning in life and that existence precedes essence. This ideology highlights the absurdity of human life, suggesting that while the world is often chaotic and meaningless, individuals have the power to create their own values and purpose through their actions and decisions. It is closely associated with themes of authenticity, anxiety, and the search for meaning in a post-religious world.
Free indirect discourse: Free indirect discourse is a narrative technique that allows the third-person narrator to convey a character's thoughts and feelings while maintaining an outside perspective. This method blurs the line between the narrator's voice and the character's internal monologue, creating a unique blend that immerses readers in the character's psyche without fully adopting their point of view. It's a powerful tool that enhances realism by providing insight into characters' inner lives while keeping the narrative grounded in an objective storytelling style.
George Eliot: George Eliot, the pen name of Mary Ann Evans, was a prominent English novelist in the 19th century known for her works that exemplified the Realist movement. Her novels often explored complex characters and social issues, providing a detailed portrayal of everyday life and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals. Eliot's writing is significant for its psychological depth and for challenging traditional gender roles, making her a key figure in the context of Realism.
Gustave Flaubert: Gustave Flaubert was a prominent French novelist, best known for his groundbreaking work 'Madame Bovary,' which exemplifies the principles of realism. His writing is characterized by a meticulous attention to detail and a focus on the everyday lives and struggles of ordinary people, marking a significant departure from romanticism. Flaubert's emphasis on objective narration and social critique made him a key figure in the development of realism in literature.
Henrik Ibsen: Henrik Ibsen was a Norwegian playwright and poet, widely regarded as one of the founders of modern drama and realism in the late 19th century. His works often tackled social issues, individual psychology, and moral dilemmas, making him a pivotal figure in the development of realistic theater that focused on the complexities of human relationships and society.
Honoré de Balzac: Honoré de Balzac was a French novelist and playwright, best known for his influential work in the literary movement of Realism during the 19th century. His most notable contribution is the series of interlinked novels and stories titled 'La Comédie Humaine', which presents a detailed panorama of French society and its complexities, focusing on the lives, struggles, and ambitions of various characters. Balzac's detailed character development and social observations set the stage for later realist writers.
Industrial Revolution: The Industrial Revolution was a period of significant technological, socioeconomic, and cultural change that began in the late 18th century and continued into the 19th century, marked by the transition from agrarian economies to industrialized societies. This transformative era reshaped various aspects of life, influencing global industrialization, labor dynamics, artistic movements, and economic theories.
Jacob Riis: Jacob Riis was a Danish-American social reformer, journalist, and photographer, best known for his work in the late 19th century that exposed the harsh conditions of the urban poor in New York City. His influential book, 'How the Other Half Lives,' combined vivid photography with narrative descriptions to highlight the struggles faced by immigrants and the working class, connecting his work to the principles of realism that aimed to depict everyday life and social issues authentically.
Leo Tolstoy: Leo Tolstoy was a Russian author and philosopher, best known for his epic novels 'War and Peace' and 'Anna Karenina.' His works exemplify the Realism movement, exploring deep psychological insights and social themes, while presenting a vivid portrayal of 19th-century Russian society.
Modernism: Modernism is a cultural and artistic movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by a break from traditional forms and a search for new means of expression. This movement sought to reflect the rapidly changing world through innovative techniques, embracing themes of fragmentation, alienation, and a questioning of established norms. Modernism influenced various art forms, literature, and architecture, marking a significant shift in how artists and thinkers approached their work.
Naturalism: Naturalism is a literary movement that emerged in the late 19th century, characterized by a focus on depicting life with a scientific and realistic approach. It emphasizes the influence of environment, heredity, and social conditions on human behavior, portraying characters as products of their circumstances rather than possessing free will. This perspective leads to a detailed exploration of everyday life, often highlighting the struggles of individuals against societal forces.
Positivism: Positivism is a philosophical theory which asserts that knowledge is exclusively derived from empirical evidence and scientific methods. It emphasizes observable phenomena and rejects metaphysics and theism, aiming to understand reality through a scientific lens. Positivism significantly influenced various fields, including sociology, psychology, and the arts, especially during the era of Realism.
Psychological depth: Psychological depth refers to the complex layers of human emotions, thoughts, and motivations that characters display, which allows for a more nuanced understanding of their behaviors and decisions. In literature, especially during the period of Realism, this concept emphasizes the portrayal of characters as multi-dimensional beings with intricate inner lives, challenging readers to empathize with their struggles and experiences.
Romanticism: Romanticism was a cultural movement that emerged in the late 18th century and emphasized emotion, individualism, and nature over reason and the classical ideals of the Enlightenment. It sought to express deep feelings, champion the human spirit, and celebrate the beauty of the natural world, often as a response to the rapid changes brought about by industrialization and urbanization. This movement had a profound influence on art, literature, music, and even political thought, shaping a new understanding of human experience and society.
Social realism: Social realism is an artistic movement that emerged in the early 20th century, focusing on depicting everyday life and the struggles of ordinary people, often highlighting social issues and injustices. This movement sought to reflect the realities of life for the working class and marginalized communities, using art as a means of social commentary and political expression.
Stephen Crane: Stephen Crane was an American author and poet known for his pioneering contributions to the literary movement of realism. His works often depicted the harsh realities of life and explored themes of human suffering and the impact of war, most notably in his iconic novel 'The Red Badge of Courage'. Crane's writing style, characterized by its stark imagery and innovative use of language, helped to shape modern American literature.
Stream of consciousness: Stream of consciousness is a narrative technique that attempts to capture the flow of thoughts and feelings in a character's mind as they occur, often in a disjointed or nonlinear fashion. This style reflects the complexity of human consciousness and emphasizes the subjective experience, allowing readers to perceive the character's internal dialogue and emotional landscape.
Theodore Dreiser: Theodore Dreiser was an American novelist and journalist, best known for his influential works that contributed to the Realism literary movement. His writing often focuses on the struggles of individuals against societal forces, emphasizing themes like poverty, ambition, and the impact of environment on personal fate. Dreiser's works are characterized by their detailed descriptions and unflinching portrayal of life’s harsh realities.
Urbanization: Urbanization is the process by which an increasing percentage of a population comes to live in urban areas, transforming the social, economic, and cultural fabric of societies. This shift is closely tied to industrial growth, as people migrate from rural areas to cities seeking better job opportunities, education, and living conditions, leading to the expansion and development of urban spaces.
Verisimilitude: Verisimilitude refers to the appearance of being true or real in literature and art, where the details and situations create a sense of authenticity that resonates with the audience. This quality is essential in realism, as it helps portray characters and events in a way that reflects real life, making it easier for readers to connect with the narrative. A strong sense of verisimilitude enhances the believability of a work, leading to a more immersive experience.
Victorian Era: The Victorian Era was a period of British history during the reign of Queen Victoria from 1837 to 1901, marked by significant industrial, cultural, political, scientific, and military changes. It was characterized by a strict social code and a booming economy due to the Industrial Revolution, which saw the rise of the steam engine and its applications transforming various industries. Additionally, this era influenced literature and art, leading to movements like realism that depicted everyday life and societal issues.