Similarities:
* Emphasis on Nature: Both movements valued nature and saw it as a source of inspiration and truth. Naturalistic writers often used detailed descriptions of the natural world to portray the harsh realities of human existence. Romantics saw nature as a refuge from the artificiality of society and a source of spiritual renewal.
* Emphasis on Individualism: Both movements valued individual experience and expression. Naturalistic writers often focused on the struggles of individuals against social forces. Romantics celebrated the unique qualities and creative power of the individual.
* Focus on the Emotional: Both movements explored the complexities of human emotion. Naturalistic writers portrayed the emotional struggles of characters caught in situations beyond their control. Romantics often idealized and romanticized intense emotions, especially love and passion.
Key Differences:
* View of Human Nature: Naturalistic writers believed human behavior was determined by heredity and environment, emphasizing the influence of social and economic factors. Romantics believed in the innate goodness and potential of humanity, emphasizing the power of imagination, intuition, and individual will.
* Style of Writing: Naturalistic writers often used a detached, objective style, seeking to depict reality with scientific precision. Romantics often employed a more subjective and emotive style, emphasizing poetic language and imagery.
* Focus of Themes: Naturalistic writers often explored themes of social injustice, poverty, and the struggles of marginalized individuals. Romantics emphasized themes of love, beauty, freedom, and the power of imagination.
In Summary:
While both movements shared a connection to nature and valued individual experience, their underlying philosophies and writing styles differed significantly. Naturalism focused on the harsh realities of life and the influence of determinism, while Romanticism embraced the ideals of individual freedom, imagination, and emotional expression.