Realism-as-a-Literary-Movement-in-English-Literature.pptx

Realism in English Literature

1. Realism as a Literary Movement in English Literature Realism was a literary movement that emerged in the mid-19th century, seeking to portray life as it truly was, focusing on everyday experiences and social issues. by Allen George

2. Historical Context: The Victorian Age in England 1 Industrial Revolution The Industrial Revolution brought rapid societal changes, urbanization, and social disparities, providing rich material for realist writers. 2 Social Reform Movements The Victorian Age saw significant social reform movements addressing issues like poverty, education, and child labor, influencing realist themes. 3 Scientific Advancements Advances in science and technology influenced realist writers' emphasis on observation, objectivity, and the portrayal of reality.

3. Defining Characteristics of Realism in Literature 1 Emphasis on Verisimilitude Realist writers strived to create a sense of reality in their work, portraying characters and events as they might occur in real life. 2 Ordinary Characters and Settings Realist literature focused on the lives of ordinary people, often from middle or lower classes, and depicted familiar settings and social situations. 3 Focus on Social Issues Realist writers often addressed social issues of their time, including poverty, inequality, class conflict, and the struggles of the working class. 4 Objectivity and Observation Realist writers aimed for objectivity in their portrayal of reality, avoiding sentimentalism or excessive emotionalism.

4. Examples of Realist Themes in Victorian Literature Social Inequality Charles Dickens' novels, like "Oliver Twist" and "A Tale of Two Cities", explored the harsh realities of poverty and social injustice in Victorian England. Urban Poverty George Eliot's "Middlemarch" portrays the lives of ordinary people in a provincial town, exposing the social and moral complexities of Victorian society. Impact of Industrialization Elizabeth Gaskell's "Mary Barton" examines the lives of working-class families in Manchester, depicting the harsh realities of industrial life and its consequences.

5. Prominent Realist Authors and Their Works Charles Dickens "Oliver Twist" "A Tale of Two Cities" "Great Expectations" George Eliot "Middlemarch" "Adam Bede" "The Mill on the Floss" Elizabeth Gaskell "Mary Barton" "Cranford" "North and South"

6. Realism vs. Romanticism: Contrasting Literary Approaches Realism Focused on ordinary lives, social issues, and objective observation. Romanticism Emphasized imagination, emotion, nature, and the idealized individual. Realism Sought to portray reality as it was, without embellishment. Romanticism Celebrated beauty, passion, and the power of the individual.

7. Techniques and Devices Used in Realist Literature Detailed Description Realist writers used vivid descriptions of characters, settings, and everyday details to create a sense of authenticity. Dialogue Dialogue in realist literature often reflects the speech patterns and vernacular of the characters, contributing to the sense of realism. Irony and Satire Realist writers often employed irony and satire to expose social hypocrisy, criticize societal norms, and highlight the complexities of human nature. Plot and Structure Realist plots often focused on the ordinary lives of characters, emphasizing everyday events and their impact on individuals.

8. Significance and Legacy of Realism in English Literature Influence on Later Writers Realism influenced later literary movements, such as naturalism and modernism, which continued to explore social issues and the complexities of human life. Global Impact The realist movement had a significant impact on literature worldwide, as writers in other countries adopted its principles and techniques. Reflection of Society Realist literature provides a valuable window into the social and cultural realities of the Victorian era, offering insights into the lives of ordinary people. Enduring Legacy Realist literature continues to be relevant today, as its themes of social justice, human nature, and the complexities of life resonate with modern readers.