Here's why:
* Origin: Realism emerged as a reaction to the heightened emotions and dramatic situations of melodrama. It aimed to portray life more realistically and objectively.
* Serious Tone: Realism focused on the everyday lives of ordinary people, often exploring social issues, personal struggles, and the complexities of human nature.
* Possibility of Happy Ending: While Realism often depicted the harsh realities of life, it also allowed for the possibility of redemption, growth, and even happiness, albeit often earned through hard work and sacrifice.
Examples of Realist literature:
* "Madame Bovary" by Gustave Flaubert: This novel explores the consequences of a woman's yearning for a life beyond her social class.
* "Anna Karenina" by Leo Tolstoy: This epic novel delves into the complexities of love, societal expectations, and the consequences of infidelity.
* "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" by Mark Twain: This classic novel portrays the struggles of a young boy escaping societal norms and finding freedom on the Mississippi River.
While Realism retained some of the elements of melodrama, such as strong emotional themes and dramatic conflict, it moved away from the exaggerated plots and improbable happy endings characteristic of the genre.
Note: While Realism is the most prominent literary movement that emerged from melodrama with a serious tone and the possibility of a happy ending, other genres and subgenres may also exhibit these characteristics. For instance, some examples of Naturalism (a literary movement closely related to Realism) and Social Realism might also align with these traits.