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Realism vs Naturalism: Differences and Similarities

Realism and naturalism are two currents in literature that have much in common, but also have their own features and approaches. Both styles aim to reflect reality, but do so with different accents and goals.

Realism, unlike naturalism, usually describes the world as the author sees it, with an emphasis on everyday events, ordinary people and their relationships. The main features of realism are objectivity, impartiality and a desire to understand human experience. Realist works often emphasize the importance of the moral and ethical aspects of life, and also describe the social conditions and mores of their time.

Naturalism, on the other hand, is more inclined to describe the feelings and emotions of characters in detail, as well as to explore scientific and social patterns. He often emphasizes the influence of the environment and heredity on the characters' characters and actions, as well as their fate. Naturalistic works may be more raw and realistic in their description, including details that may be unpleasant or shocking to the reader.

However, despite these differences, realism and naturalism also have some similarities. Both movements seek a reliable representation of the world and human experience, as well as an analysis of the social and psychological aspects of life. They both play an important role in literature, allowing readers to better understand themselves and the world around them through the lens of the art of the word.

Realism and naturalism are thus two important strands in literature that, despite their differences, enrich our understanding of the world and ourselves.