Realism in novels refers to a literary movement that emerged in the 19th century, characterized by:
* Focus on everyday life and ordinary people: Realist novels often depict the lives of middle and lower classes, exploring their struggles, relationships, and experiences in a relatable way.
* Detailed descriptions and social commentary: Realists aimed to portray the world accurately, with meticulous attention to detail in settings, characters, and social contexts. This detail often served to highlight social injustices and critique societal norms.
* Emphasis on psychological realism: The inner thoughts, motivations, and emotions of characters were explored in depth, showcasing the complexities of human nature.
* Objectivity and observation: Realists sought to present a detached, objective view of reality, avoiding sentimentality and melodrama.
Daniel Defoe played a pivotal role in the development of realism, though his works predate the formal movement. His novels, particularly "Robinson Crusoe" (1719) and "Moll Flanders" (1722), are considered precursors to realism for several reasons:
* Emphasis on verisimilitude: Defoe's works, while fictional, employed a strong sense of verisimilitude, creating the illusion of authenticity through detailed descriptions, plausible storylines, and believable characters.
* Focus on the individual and their struggles: Crusoe and Moll Flanders are not idealized heroes, but rather complex individuals grappling with survival, morality, and social pressures. Defoe's exploration of their inner thoughts and motivations paved the way for psychological realism.
* Exploration of everyday life: Defoe's novels portrayed the ordinary lives of individuals, from Crusoe's struggles on a deserted island to Moll's experiences as a thief and prostitute. This focus on the realities of daily life was a key element of the later realist movement.
* Social commentary: While not overtly critical, Defoe's novels often touched upon issues of poverty, social mobility, and the role of women in society, paving the way for later writers who directly engaged in social commentary.
However, it's important to note:
* Defoe's works are not strictly "realist": He still used elements of the earlier picaresque genre, with fantastical elements and a focus on adventure.
* Defoe's primary goal was not to create a social commentary: He aimed to entertain and engage his audience, and his realistic portrayal of life was a tool to achieve that.
Overall, Daniel Defoe's contribution to the development of realism lies in his emphasis on verisimilitude, believable characters, and the exploration of everyday life. His works, while not strictly realist in the 19th-century sense, paved the way for the later movement by demonstrating the power of detailed observation and psychological realism in creating compelling and relatable narratives.