Here are some key figures often associated with the origins of realism:
* Honore de Balzac: A French novelist considered a founding father of realism, known for his detailed portrayals of Parisian life in works like "The Human Comedy."
* Gustave Flaubert: A French novelist who emphasized objectivity and meticulous detail in his writing, as seen in "Madame Bovary."
* George Eliot (Mary Ann Evans): An English novelist who explored the complexities of human relationships and social issues in works like "Middlemarch."
* Leo Tolstoy: A Russian novelist who explored the lives of ordinary people and their struggles in masterpieces like "War and Peace" and "Anna Karenina."
* Ivan Turgenev: Another prominent Russian novelist who contributed to the development of realist themes and style.
It's crucial to note that realism wasn't a monolithic movement. Different writers had their own variations and approaches. Some focused on social critique, while others emphasized psychological realism or exploring the lives of everyday people.
Instead of a single founder, it's better to view realism as a literary movement that emerged through the combined efforts of many talented writers.