American Regionalism, Realism, and Naturalism 1860-1914

What is Realism? A faithful representation of reality in literature, also known as “verisimilitude.” Emphasis on development of believable characters. Written in natural vernacular or dialect. Prominent from 1860-1890.

Realist Writers Bret Harte Henry James Edgar Lee Masters E. A. Robinson Mark Twain

Why did Realism develop? The Civil War The urbanization and industrialization of America As a reaction to Romanticism Increasing rates of democracy and literacy The emerging middle class Upheaval and social change in the latter half of the 19th century

What is Regionalism? Often called “local color.” Focuses on characters, dialect, customs, topography, and other features specific to a certain region (eg. the South) Coincided with Realism and shared many of the same traits. Prominent from 1865-1895.

Regionalist Writers Mary E. Wilkins-Freeman—New England Mark Twain—West Willa Cather—Midwest Kate Chopin—South

Why did Regionalism develop? Dual influence of Romanticism and Realism The Civil War and the building of a national identity An outgrowth of realism with more focus on a particular setting and its influence over characters

What is Naturalism? Applies scientific principles of objectivity and detachment to humanity. Influenced by Darwinism (natural selection) and psychology (Freud) Asserts that people are governed by heredity and environment. Often depicts humanity in conflict with nature, society, or itself. Prominent from 1880-1920(ish)

Naturalist Writers Stephen Crane Jack London Katherine Anne Porter Charlotte Perkins Gilman Edith Wharton Ambrose Bierce

Why did Naturalism develop? Increasing immigration, 1850-1900, which increased lower class and urban poverty Prominence of psychology and theories of Sigmund Freud Pessimism after Civil War and Reconstruction Publication of Charles Darwin’s Origin of the Species

Points to Remember… Realism, Regionalism, and Naturalism intertwine and connect. Their influence has dominated most literature created since 1920, though the movement itself is dated to roughly that point. These are truly American modes of writing: "All modern American literature comes from one book by Mark Twain called Huckleberry Finn,” novelist Ernest Hemingway would later write.