Materialism

Definition

Materialism is a philosophical viewpoint that emphasizes the importance of physical matter and the material world over spiritual or abstract concepts. In literature, particularly in Realist and Naturalist works, materialism manifests as a focus on the tangible aspects of life, such as economic conditions, social class, and the physical environment, often critiquing how these elements shape human experience and behavior.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Materialism in literature is often linked to the idea that characters are shaped by their social environments and economic situations.
2. Realist writers frequently use materialistic themes to expose the harsh realities of life for various social classes during the 19th century.
3. Naturalist authors take materialism further by suggesting that human behavior is determined by biological and environmental factors beyond individual control.
4. The critique of materialism often reveals the consequences of capitalism and industrialization on society, emphasizing poverty, class struggle, and alienation.
5. Works featuring materialistic perspectives can lead readers to question their own values and the societal structures around them, encouraging deeper reflection on personal and collective experiences.

Review Questions

• How does materialism manifest in the characterization of individuals in Realist and Naturalist literature?
  • In Realist and Naturalist literature, materialism influences characterization by portraying individuals as products of their environments. Characters often reflect the economic conditions, social class dynamics, and physical settings they inhabit. This approach allows readers to see how external factors shape characters' motivations, behaviors, and fates, ultimately emphasizing that individual choices are heavily influenced by material circumstances.
• Discuss how Realist authors critique societal norms through materialistic themes.
  • Realist authors use materialistic themes to critique societal norms by showcasing the struggles of ordinary people against the backdrop of their economic realities. By highlighting issues such as poverty, class inequality, and the impact of industrialization, these authors challenge the romanticized views of life prevalent in earlier literary traditions. Through their narratives, they encourage readers to confront uncomfortable truths about society's structure and the lived experiences of marginalized groups.
• Evaluate the impact of materialism on the broader narrative of human experience in Naturalist literature.
  • In Naturalist literature, materialism significantly shapes the narrative of human experience by suggesting that individuals are largely determined by their environment, heredity, and socio-economic status. This perspective underscores a deterministic view of life where free will is limited, leading to bleak portrayals of existence. Such narratives invite readers to analyze how external forces govern personal destinies, prompting deeper discussions about agency, responsibility, and the interplay between individual lives and larger societal forces.

Related terms

Realism:

A literary movement that aims to represent everyday life and society as it truly is, often highlighting the lives of ordinary people and social issues.

Naturalism:

An extension of Realism that seeks to depict life with scientific accuracy, focusing on how environment, heredity, and social conditions influence human behavior.

Social Critique:

A form of critical analysis that examines social structures and inequalities, often aiming to challenge societal norms and advocate for change.