Short Answer

Naturalism and Realism are both literary movements that focus on real life, but they are different in their approach. Realism shows life as it is, while Naturalism goes deeper and shows how human life is controlled by forces like environment, heredity, and social conditions.

Realism presents everyday life in a balanced way, but Naturalism often shows harsh realities and struggles. Writers like Charles Dickens represent Realism, while Émile Zola is known for Naturalism.

Detailed Explanation:

Naturalism and Realism difference

Basic idea

The main difference between Naturalism and Realism lies in their basic idea. Realism focuses on presenting life as it is, without imagination or exaggeration. It shows ordinary people and everyday situations.

Naturalism, on the other hand, is an extension of Realism. It goes further by explaining that human life is shaped by forces such as environment, heredity, and social conditions. It shows life in a more scientific and detailed way.

View of human life

Realism presents human life in a balanced and normal way. Characters are shown with both strengths and weaknesses. Writers focus on daily experiences and social realities.

Naturalism presents a more serious and often darker view of life. It shows that humans are controlled by external forces and have little freedom. Characters often struggle with poverty, illness, and difficult conditions.

Role of environment

In Realism, environment is important but not controlling. It influences characters but does not fully decide their actions.

In Naturalism, environment plays a major role. Writers believe that surroundings strongly control human behavior. People are shaped by where they live and the conditions around them.

Role of heredity

Heredity, or family background, is not a major focus in Realism. Writers mainly show present life situations.

In Naturalism, heredity is very important. Writers believe that a person’s nature and behavior are influenced by their family and biological factors.

Style of writing

Realist writing is simple, clear, and balanced. It avoids exaggeration and presents reality in a calm way.

Naturalist writing is more detailed and intense. It often includes scientific observation and focuses on harsh realities. Writers may describe unpleasant or difficult situations in detail.

Themes and subject matter

Realism deals with everyday life, social issues, and relationships. It shows common experiences in a relatable way.

Naturalism deals with extreme conditions such as poverty, violence, and survival. It shows how people struggle under difficult circumstances.

Writer’s approach

Realist writers observe and describe life without strong judgment. They allow readers to form their own opinions.

Naturalist writers take a more scientific approach. They study human life as if it is controlled by laws of nature. They show how external forces affect people’s lives.

Examples of writers

Charles Dickens is a well-known Realist writer who described social life and human experiences.

Émile Zola is a famous Naturalist writer who focused on environment and heredity in shaping human life.

Conclusion

Naturalism and Realism are closely related but different literary movements. Realism presents life as it is, while Naturalism shows how life is controlled by external forces. Both movements help in understanding human life, but Naturalism gives a deeper and more intense view.