Worlds Enough The Invention Of Realism In The Victorian Novel
Realism is a literary movement that emerged in the mid-19th century in France and spread throughout Europe. It focused on depicting the reality of everyday life, often using the experiences of ordinary people as subject matter. In England, the Victorian novelists embraced this movement, creating some of the most enduring works of literature in the English language. This article explores the invention of realism in the Victorian novel, its characteristics, and its impact on the literary world.
The Rise of Realism
Before the Victorian era, novels tended to be melodramatic and romantic, with improbable plots and idealized characters. However, as the social and political climate of England changed, so did the literary tastes of the reading public. The rise of industrialization and urbanization brought about new challenges and experiences, and the middle class began to demand literature that reflected their own lives.
Authors such as Charles Dickens, Elizabeth Gaskell, and George Eliot responded to this demand by creating works that addressed contemporary issues such as poverty, social injustice, and the changing roles of men and women in society. These novels were often serialized in popular magazines, making them accessible to a wider audience.
Characteristics of Realism
The Victorian novelists who embraced realism sought to depict life as it really was, without idealizing or exaggerating it. They employed a number of techniques to achieve this, such as:
- Characterization: Realistic characters were complex, with both strengths and flaws. Authors used dialogue and interior monologue to reveal their inner thoughts and motivations.
- Setting: Realistic novels often took place in recognizable locations, such as cities, towns, and villages. Authors used detailed descriptions to create a sense of place.
- Language: Realistic novels used everyday language, rather than the flowery, romantic language of earlier novels. They also included dialects and colloquialisms to create a sense of reality.
- Plot: Realistic plots were often based on the experiences of ordinary people, rather than extraordinary events. They often dealt with social issues, such as poverty, education, and gender roles.
The Impact of Realism
The Victorian novelists who embraced realism had a profound impact on the literary world. Their works were widely read and admired, and they set a new standard for literary excellence. Realism also paved the way for other literary movements, such as naturalism and modernism, which built on its foundations.
Realism also had a significant impact on society. By depicting the reality of everyday life, these novels brought attention to social issues and helped to raise awareness of the problems facing ordinary people. They also helped to create a sense of national identity, as readers recognized themselves and their own experiences in the novels.
Conclusion
The invention of realism in the Victorian novel was a significant moment in the history of literature. It represented a shift away from the melodramatic and romantic novels of the past, and a move towards literature that depicted life as it really was. The Victorian novelists who embraced realism created enduring works of literature that continue to be read and admired today. Their legacy can be seen in the literature of the 20th and 21st centuries, which has built on the foundations they laid.