LITERARY THEORY: REALISM
An Analysis of its Origin, Development, Characteristics, and Criticisms
Question: What is Realism? Discuss the origin and development of Realism.
→ In the history of art and literature, Realism is a highly powerful and revolutionary philosophy of life. It
originated in Europe during the mid-nineteenth century as a reaction against Romanticism. While Romantic
literature was engrossed in imaginative emotions, supernatural mysteries, and the romance of the upper class,
Realism stepped down to the dusty earth to portray the harsh realities of human daily life.
At the core of Realism lies a scientific perspective and sociological analysis. Realistic artists believe that truth is
grander than beauty. Therefore, in their writings, instead of kings, emperors, or imaginary heroes, the neglected
people of society and the socio-economic realities of contemporary life find their place.
Realism is a literary theory that portrays the harsh truths of life, the daily struggles of ordinary people, and an
authentic picture of society.
Definitions of Realism
According to the Oxford Dictionary:
"Realism is the practice of representing things in a way that is accurate and true to life."
According to Badiur Rahman:
"Presenting the world, life, and nature in art and literature in an appropriate and objective manner is
Realism."
— Sahitya-Songgma-Obhidhan (Dictionary of Literary Definitions), Badiur Rahman
Historical Background & Evolution
Realistic thought in literature is age-old. In fact, realistic art and literature do not belong to any specific time, place,
or language. Its practice can be traced back to many ancient works of literature. In the fourteenth century, the works
of the English poet Geoffrey Chaucer, or Daniel Defoe—the author of Robinson Crusoe's adventure story—reflect
clear depictions of social reality. In Bengali literature, the essence of social realism has been present since its very
inception, namely in the Charyapada.
The first formal use of the word 'Realism' was seen in France in 1850 AD. The French novelist Honoré de Balzac is
widely regarded as the pioneer of literary realism. He achieved great fame by depicting contemporary French
1
An Analysis of its Origin, Development, Characteristics, and Criticisms
Question: What is Realism? Discuss the origin and development of Realism.
→ In the history of art and literature, Realism is a highly powerful and revolutionary philosophy of life. It
originated in Europe during the mid-nineteenth century as a reaction against Romanticism. While Romantic
literature was engrossed in imaginative emotions, supernatural mysteries, and the romance of the upper class,
Realism stepped down to the dusty earth to portray the harsh realities of human daily life.
At the core of Realism lies a scientific perspective and sociological analysis. Realistic artists believe that truth is
grander than beauty. Therefore, in their writings, instead of kings, emperors, or imaginary heroes, the neglected
people of society and the socio-economic realities of contemporary life find their place.
Realism is a literary theory that portrays the harsh truths of life, the daily struggles of ordinary people, and an
authentic picture of society.
Definitions of Realism
According to the Oxford Dictionary:
"Realism is the practice of representing things in a way that is accurate and true to life."
According to Badiur Rahman:
"Presenting the world, life, and nature in art and literature in an appropriate and objective manner is
Realism."
— Sahitya-Songgma-Obhidhan (Dictionary of Literary Definitions), Badiur Rahman
Historical Background & Evolution
Realistic thought in literature is age-old. In fact, realistic art and literature do not belong to any specific time, place,
or language. Its practice can be traced back to many ancient works of literature. In the fourteenth century, the works
of the English poet Geoffrey Chaucer, or Daniel Defoe—the author of Robinson Crusoe's adventure story—reflect
clear depictions of social reality. In Bengali literature, the essence of social realism has been present since its very
inception, namely in the Charyapada.
The first formal use of the word 'Realism' was seen in France in 1850 AD. The French novelist Honoré de Balzac is
widely regarded as the pioneer of literary realism. He achieved great fame by depicting contemporary French
1
