Comparison Of Naturalism And Realism In Literature

Naturalism is a literary genre which began in the 19th century. It was first developed in theater, literature, film and art. This motion had an impact on character’s roles in family, society and personal traits. The writers started to recognize that the character’s environment was a crucial factor in how they would react to various situations. Naturalism is not a genre. Although they are both very similar, “new” realism is quite different. These terms can have different meanings depending on how the author uses them. Realism is more concerned with the “hard truth” of life. Realism emphasizes reality and morality in a person’s life. This type realism draws readers into the story of the character and helps them to overcome adversity. In today’s literature, realism is essential. This style of writing has been mastered by many authors and is a key ingredient to literary success. Naturalism is basically the belief that all things happen for a reason. Although fate may be unavoidable, fate can be avoided at all times. The literary world has seen a lot of Naturalism. It’s also useful and has made the stories of authors more fascinating to read. Naturalism can include any failures in one’s life such as racism or outspoken rudeness. Even though it can seem depressing, there are always positive things in life. These stories can be read to make the future better and more peaceful. The literary movements Naturalism, or “new” realityist, are closely related. Both movements had a huge impact and dominated literature. Each term would have caused chaos in the literary world and would have made today’s writing structure very different. Naturalism is a derived term. Without “new” reality, a reader might not be capable of spotting key components within an author’s tale.

Theodore Dreiser is an exceptional example of realist writing in “Sister Carrie”. This story helps readers to determine what kind of author he really is. He states, “When Caroline Meeber boarded the afternoon train for Chicago her total outfit consisted of a small trunk which was checked in the baggage car, a cheap imitation alligator skin satchel holding some minor details about the toilet, a small lunch in a paper box and containing ten dollars in cash. A scrap of paper with her sister’s address on Van Buren Street is also included.” On page. 597, he writes, “When Caroline Meeber boarded Chicago’s afternoon trains, her entire outfit consisted of a small suitcase, which was checked into the baggage car, an imitation alligator skin bag holding some minor details, a toilet paper box containing her lunch, a yellow purse with a snap key, a scrap paper with her sister’s address, and four dollars in cash.” These terms are used to describe the character, and help readers connect with them. Henry James’ story, Daisy Miller, uses this kind of derogative language to give the reader a lot more background. In this story, Winterbourne meets Daisy Miller (a beautiful American girl) in Vevey. She is on vacation with her mother and younger brother. Winterbourne is drawn to Daisy by her unique characteristics and how she differs from other European girls. Winterbourne aunt Mrs. Costello snidely criticize Daisy Miller. You’ve been too far away from the country. You will make a huge mistake. You are way too innocent.” This is a fantastic example of realistic writing. Mrs. Costello gives an honest response about how she feels about Daisy Miller’s situation and her nephew Winterbourne. Winterbourne also said, gravely, that Daisy’s habits were like those of a flirt. She laughed, and then gave him a smile. “I’m a fearful, frightful flirt! Is there ever a girl you didn’t like? But I imagine you will say me now that “I am not a pleasant girl”,” Winterbourne added. This was an important conversation for Winterbourne. He got a clear glimpse into Daisy’s feelings towards her. Daisy suffers from a severe illness and ultimately dies. Naturalism is also implied by her death. Daisy regrets her decision to end her life. Winterbourne was left a note before she died. It stated that she had been told by Winterbourne to tell Miller that she never got engaged to this handsome Italian. I am certain that I am glad. Since her death, Mr. Giovanelli was not present with us. I thought that he was such a gentleman; however, I don’t think that this is very polite. This story demonstrates how the actions a character has on a person’s life.

It is much easier to identify Naturalism in a story. Naturalism creates the role of the character and how that character might react to different situations. Booker T. Washington (a slave) was one example. He conquered many battles over his lifetime and went on to be one of America’s most influential authors. Washington was a salt packer and coal miner while still attending school during the day. Washington graduated in 1875 from Hampton after much effort and perseverance. This was just the beginning of many other great accomplishments and huge tasks that Washington would soon achieve later in his life. Washington also helped to build the Tuskegee Institute and was made its principal. The school was created by the Alabama legislature in order to train African American women in teaching and agricultural trades. Washington gave a wonderful speech at Atlanta Cotton Exposition. Even Governor Bullock was impressed by his well-crafted speech. Washington is also encouraged by the feedback he received after his speech. Later, Washington receives an encouraging letter from President Grover Brown and begins to get to know him well. Washington states that President Grover is a key figure in Tuskegee’s success. The story is related to naturalism as the reader can feel Washington’s fight for more for himself and others.

Sarah Orne Jewett is a Maine native. Jewett was a great child, as were her sisters. Jewett loved her dad and would go with him on business trips. Jewett’s mother died and it became difficult without her. Jewett confessed to Thomas Bailey Aldrich her feelings about her mother’s death. A little girl named Sylvia meets the hunter in “A White Heron”. Sylvia recognises the bird but doesn’t want her to cause the bird’s death. Although the hunter offers her money to help locate the bird, Sylvia is still reluctant. Sylvia discovers the bird by accident, climbing a tree alone. Sylvia decides that she will not tell the hunter her sightings and he leaves. Sylvia now wonders if she made the right decision. This is Naturalism. Sylvia was attracted to the beauty and wonders of nature and couldn’t help but do so.

The ability to connect realism and naturalism is a powerful way to bring them together. Although the terms may have their differences, they will always be compatible and make novels and stories more understandable to readers. Naturalism and realism are terms closely linked in American literary historical. They were terms used by editors and critics in late nineteenth-century and early twentieth century America. They are sometimes used interchangeably, but they can also be used as opposites. They are very similar so realism and naturalism can best be understood as a group of attitudes, tendencies, and literary periods.

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  • coracarver11

    Cora Carver is an educational blogger and mother of two. She has a passion for helping others learn and grow, and she uses her blog to share her knowledge and experiences with others.

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