Naturalism

Definition

Naturalism is a style of storytelling that aims to depict life accurately and realistically, emphasizing the influence of environment, heredity, and social conditions on human behavior. It connects closely with the idea that characters are shaped by their circumstances and that their choices are often predetermined by factors outside their control. This approach rejects romanticized or idealized portrayals, instead opting for gritty realism and often highlighting the darker aspects of life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Naturalism emerged as a literary movement in the late 19th century, heavily influenced by scientific theories, particularly Darwinism and the idea of survival of the fittest.
2. In naturalistic works, characters often face harsh realities and their fates are typically dictated by their environment and inherited traits rather than free will.
3. Naturalism is commonly seen in novels and plays where authors focus on the mundane aspects of life, portraying gritty details and exploring social issues.
4. Unlike realism, which can include idealized characters and scenarios, naturalism tends to present a more pessimistic view of life with an emphasis on the struggles against fate.
5. Prominent naturalist authors include Émile Zola and Stephen Crane, who utilized their narratives to depict social issues and human struggles in an unfiltered manner.

Review Questions

• How does naturalism differentiate itself from realism in storytelling?
  • Naturalism differs from realism in its emphasis on determinism and the impact of environment on characters. While realism seeks to portray everyday life accurately, naturalism goes a step further by suggesting that characters' actions and outcomes are heavily influenced by external factors such as heredity and societal conditions. This often results in more grim portrayals of life where individuals have little control over their destinies.
• Discuss how the theme of determinism is portrayed in naturalistic literature.
  • In naturalistic literature, determinism is portrayed through characters whose lives are shaped by forces beyond their control, such as genetics or social circumstances. This often leads to conflicts where characters struggle against these forces but ultimately succumb to them. The narrative illustrates that despite personal desires or efforts, outcomes are largely predetermined by environmental and hereditary influences, showcasing a bleak view of human existence.
• Evaluate the impact of naturalism on contemporary storytelling and its relevance in today's narratives.
  • Naturalism has had a lasting impact on contemporary storytelling by influencing how authors approach character development and thematic exploration. In today's narratives, elements of naturalism can be seen in works that highlight social issues, mental health struggles, or systemic inequalities. This relevance underscores the ongoing exploration of how environment and biology affect individuals' lives, prompting audiences to reflect on the complexities of human behavior within modern society.

Related terms

realism: A literary and artistic movement that seeks to represent everyday life and ordinary people in a truthful manner, often serving as a precursor to naturalism.

determinism: The philosophical concept that all events, including human actions, are determined by previously existing causes, often reflected in the characters' struggles within naturalistic narratives.

environmental influence: The impact of external factors such as socioeconomic status, geography, and culture on an individual's behavior and choices, central to the themes in naturalistic works.