Here's why:
* Verisimilitude means the appearance of being true or real. This is a key characteristic of Realism, which aimed to portray life accurately and honestly, focusing on everyday experiences and ordinary people.
* Realism emerged in the United States in the aftermath of the Civil War, reflecting the nation's changing social landscape and industrialization.
* Key writers of this era include Mark Twain, William Dean Howells, and Henry James, all known for their realistic depictions of American life.
While "verisimilitude" is sometimes used to describe Realism, it's not a synonym for it. Verisimilitude is a technique employed within Realism to achieve its aims.