Naturalism

Definition

Naturalism is a literary movement that emerged in the late 19th century, characterized by a focus on depicting life accurately and objectively, often emphasizing the influence of environment, heredity, and social conditions on human behavior. This approach sought to apply the principles of scientific observation to literature, portraying characters as products of their surroundings and circumstances. Naturalism reflects a philosophical stance that often challenges idealized representations of life, aiming for a more realistic and sometimes pessimistic outlook.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Naturalism is often seen as an extension or outgrowth of realism, taking a more scientific and objective approach to storytelling.
2. Key themes in naturalist literature include the impact of nature and environment on individuals, as well as the role of instinct and hereditary factors in shaping human behavior.
3. Naturalist writers frequently explored the darker aspects of human existence, such as poverty, addiction, and social injustice.
4. Emile Zola's novels are considered foundational texts in naturalism, exemplifying the method through detailed research and vivid characterizations.
5. The movement has influenced various genres, including theater and film, where realistic portrayals of life continue to be a significant focus.

Review Questions

• How does naturalism differ from realism in literature?
  • Naturalism differs from realism in its emphasis on scientific objectivity and the deterministic factors that shape human life. While realism seeks to portray everyday experiences authentically, naturalism goes further by analyzing characters as products of their environment and hereditary influences. This often leads to a more pessimistic view of humanity's struggle against societal forces and natural instincts.
• Discuss how determinism is connected to the principles of naturalism.
  • Determinism plays a critical role in naturalism by suggesting that human behavior is largely influenced by external factors beyond individual control. Naturalist writers argue that characters are shaped by their environment, genetics, and social conditions, which aligns with determinist philosophy. This connection emphasizes the idea that people are not fully responsible for their actions but are instead driven by forces outside their influence.
• Evaluate the impact of Emile Zola's works on the development of the naturalism movement.
  • Emile Zola significantly impacted the naturalism movement through his rigorous approach to depicting social realities and human behavior. His novels, such as 'Germinal' and 'Nana,' exemplify how environmental conditions and heredity affect characters' lives. Zola's commitment to research and detail set a standard for naturalist literature, influencing subsequent writers to adopt similar methods in exploring societal issues and the human condition.

Related terms

Realism: A literary movement that aimed to represent everyday life and society without embellishment, focusing on ordinary characters and events.

Determinism: The philosophical idea that all events, including human actions, are determined by previously existing causes, often linked with naturalist thought.

Emile Zola: A French writer and key figure in the naturalism movement, known for his detailed studies of social conditions and human behavior.