Realism in literature seeks to depict life as it is, focusing on everyday experiences and ordinary people. It avoids idealization and romanticism, aiming for an objective portrayal of reality. Realist writers often explore social issues and the complexities of human relationships within a specific social context.
Naturalism is an extreme form of realism. It suggests that human behavior is primarily determined by heredity and environment. Naturalistic writers often portray characters as victims of their circumstances, lacking free will and controlled by external forces. They explore the darker aspects of life, emphasizing determinism and pessimism.
| Feature | Realism | Naturalism |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Everyday life, social issues, human relationships | Influence of heredity and environment, darker aspects of life |
| Characters | Relatable, ordinary people with free will | Victims of circumstances, lacking free will |
| Themes | Social critique, ethical dilemmas, personal growth | Determinism, survival, the impact of environment |
| Style | Objective, straightforward, detailed descriptions | Pessimistic, detached, scientific observation |
| Scope | Broader social context | Specific environmental and hereditary factors |
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