Here's a breakdown:
Common Characteristics of Naturalistic Novels:
* Emphasis on scientific determinism: Characters are often seen as products of their environment, heredity, and social conditions. They have little to no free will and are driven by instinct and external forces.
* Focus on the gritty, the ordinary, and the unpleasant: Naturalistic novels often depict the darker side of life, including poverty, violence, and social injustice. They avoid romanticizing or idealizing their subjects.
* Objective and detached narration: The narrator typically avoids expressing personal opinions or judgments, instead presenting events in a factual, almost clinical manner.
* Characters from the lower classes: Naturalistic novels often feature characters who are marginalized or struggling to survive.
* Exploration of social issues: They often address themes of social inequality, prejudice, and the corruption of society.
What's NOT a defining characteristic?
The answer to your question depends on what you're looking for in the definition. However, the following are less likely to be core elements of a naturalistic novel:
* Romantic idealism: This runs counter to the movement's emphasis on realism and the darker aspects of life.
* Emphasis on individual heroism: Naturalism tends to emphasize the limitations and struggles of individuals, rather than their heroic potential.
* Happy endings: Naturalistic novels often end on a bleak or ambiguous note, reflecting the harsh realities of life.
Important Note:
Naturalism is a complex literary movement, and its boundaries are not always clear-cut. There's a lot of debate among literary scholars about what exactly constitutes a naturalistic novel.