Literary Movements: Realism and Naturalism
Realism and Naturalism in Literature
Realism (1848 – France)
Realism emerged in France in 1848 as a reaction against the idealization and escapism of Romanticism. It emphasized the observation of reality. Key features include:
- Accuracy and Objectivity: The term “realism” itself highlights the focus on accurately and objectively portraying characters and environments.
- Characters from Everyday Life: Characters are often drawn from the lower classes and depicted in a realistic manner.
- Detailed Settings: Scenarios are described in detail, making them recognizable to contemporary readers. Social life is meticulously reflected.
- Social Themes: Works explore the interests, conflicts, and feelings of different social classes.
- Natural Language: Language is adapted to the characters, abandoning Romantic rhetoric for a natural and direct style. Colloquialisms and everyday speech are common.
- Omniscient Narrator: The narrator is fully aware of the environment and the inner world of the characters, capable of praising or ridiculing them.
- Moral Intent: Some novels have a moral purpose, describing societal vices and failings with the aim of promoting improvement.
Naturalism (Late 19th Century)
Naturalism emerged in the late 19th century, with its foundations laid by the French writer Emile Zola. This movement sparked controversy due to its similarities and differences with Realism. Key influences and characteristics include:
- Philosophical Influences: Naturalism was influenced by philosophical theories, particularly the application of the experimental method to the observation of reality.
- Heredity and Environment: Emphasis is placed on how heredity and environment determine the behavior of characters.
- Unpleasant Aspects of Reality: Naturalistic works often depict the more unpleasant and harsh aspects of reality.
- Marginalized Characters: There’s a strong interest in marginalized characters, showcasing the influence of heredity and environment on their lives.
Benito Pérez Galdós (Spanish Realism)
Benito Pérez Galdós was born in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. He went to study law in Madrid, the city where he lived until his death and which served as the backdrop for many of his works. His novels reflect a progressive mindset. Key characteristics of his work include:
- Middle-Class Focus: Galdós primarily portrays the middle class.
- Life’s Problems: Characters convey the problems and complexities of everyday life.
- Progressive Ideology: His works often showcase a progressive ideology.
- Colloquial Language: The language reflects the everyday speech of the streets.
- Narrative Style: He employs an omniscient narrator, alternating between narration and dialogue.
*Episodios Nacionales* (National Episodes)
This series of 46 books narrates the history of Spain from 1805 to the mid-19th century. They interweave historical events with the lives of fictional characters, encompassing all social classes and blending fact and fiction.
Novels
- Early Novels: These works contrast religious ideas, often depicting conflicts between liberal and more intolerant viewpoints.
- Contemporary Spanish Novels: Beginning with “La Desheredada” and notably including “Fortunata y Jacinta,” these novels focus on contemporary life in Madrid.
- Spiritualist Novels: These works, representing Galdós’s later period, emphasize goodness and social justice.
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