Realism in Literature A response to Romanticism

What is Realism? American Realism is a style in art, music, and literature that depicts the lives and everyday activities of ordinary people. The movement began in the late 19 th century.

How did it come about? The rise of Realism was actually a reaction against Romanticism.

Romanticism An artistic, literary, and intellectual movement that originated in Europe in the late 1700s. An idealized view of reality Romanticism focused on individualism, appreciation for the natural world, idealism, physical and emotional passion, and the supernatural.

Romanticism con’t Since Romanticism was introduced during a time of growth in the US, the literature reflected on ideas such as optimism, opportunity, and love. Characteristics: Plot-focused, imaginative, positive, emotionally intense, and not very realistic

Realism as a response to Romanticism As the 19 th century went on, industrialization and urbanization led to major social and economic changes The rich and poor became divided There was a new need for literature that reflected people’s lives– their REAL lives

What does Realism Focus on? The immediate; the “here and now” Specific actions Consequences of actions Moral questions – concerned with the principles of right and wrong behavior

Characteristics of Realism Focuses on reality Characters are more important than action and plot Characters display real human qualities such as temper, selfishness, and insecurities Social class is important (low, middle, and upper class)

Characteristics of Realism con’t Events are believable. Realistic novels stay away from dramatic stories and romances. Natural diction (word choice) Tone is NOT poetic; instead, may be comic, satiric, or matter-of-fact

Groups For your novel, research the plot and decide why it is an example of realism. Prepare to share with the class. Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton Great Expectations by Charles Dickens The Pearl by John Steinbeck