Realism is a literary and artistic movement that emerged in the 19th century, focusing on depicting everyday life and society as it truly is, without idealization or romanticism. Realist works often explore social issues, class struggles, and the harsh realities of life, presenting a truthful and objective portrayal of the world. Realism is characterized by its attention to detail, accuracy, and emphasis on the ordinary and mundane aspects of life. Some key figures associated with realism include Gustave Flaubert, Leo Tolstoy, and Émile Zola.
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Google Gemini AI
Jun 10
Realism is an artistic and literary movement that emphasizes the depiction of everyday life and common objects.
Key Characteristics:
- Emphasis on objective reality: Realists aimed to portray life "as it is," without idealization or embellishment. - Focus on ordinary people and subjects: Artists depicted people and scenes from all walks of life, including the poor, working class, and middle class. - Use of common objects: Objects from everyday life, such as furniture, clothing, and utensils, were often incorporated into paintings. - Accurate representation of light and shadow: Realists used light and shadow to create a sense of depth and spatial recession. - Attention to detail: Artists observed their subjects closely and depicted them with meticulous accuracy. - Emphasis on social commentary: Some realist works explored social issues and inequalities.
Historical Context:
Realism emerged in the mid-19th century as a reaction to the romanticism that had preceded it. Romantics emphasized emotion, imagination, and the idealization of nature and human life. Realists, on the other hand, sought to break free from these conventions and depict the world as it truly existed.
Notable Realist Artists:
- Gustave Courbet - Jean-François Millet - Thomas Eakins - Winslow Homer - John Constable
Legacy:
Realism had a profound impact on subsequent artistic movements, including Impressionism and Modernism. It also influenced the development of literary realism, which aimed to portray life accurately and to explore social issues. The legacy of realism continues to inspire artists and writers today.