Short Story: Realism (Maupassant, etc.)

REALISM Describes both style and subject matter Reaction to/rejection of Romanticism Rejects most emotional reaction, characterization, themes Relies less on atmosphere and mood than on factual description, detail, and character interaction Focuses on “real-world” events rather than reaching for “ideals” Depicts objectively, rather than subjectively Resists exotic settings, plot twists, etc. focuses on middle-class/bourgeois life, not on exploits and adventures of kings, heroes, etc. unless in relation to middle class/bourgeoisie (so Chaucer an early version); few extraordinary characters (as in Poe)

REALISM Seeks accurate portrayal of the ordinary world verisimilitude concentrates on detailed true-to-life descriptions (almost mimesis or the mimetic) favors literal over figurative, but can appeal to figurative as well (by extension) emphasizes the here-and-now (immediacy), specific action and verifiable consequences

REALISM Depicts unrecognized drama of actual life and plausible real-world events (not explicit fantasy, although still fiction) conflicts/tensions are often social, so character interaction drives plot Often offers social commentary through attention to “real-life” scenes, character interaction, etc. Since focuses on working-class/bourgeois characters, frequently democratic in tone or perspective Often intended to serve a social purpose (to depict details of life in socially-classed societies) Often firmly grounded in actual history