Naturalism in American Literature

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Naturalism in American Literature

Naturalism in American Literature


Naturalism in American Literature

Introduction to Naturalism in American Literature

American literature of the late 19th century witnessed the emergence of a profound literary movement known as naturalism, which sought to illuminate the deterministic forces of nature and environment on human existence. Rooted in the scientific theories of the time, particularly Darwinism, naturalism portrayed characters as products of their surroundings, grappling with inexorable circumstances. In this exploration of naturalism in American literature, we will delve into the core principles of this movement, examining the influence of science, the pessimistic lens through which it perceives human destiny, and its keen focus on societal and environmental determinants. Through the lens of notable works and authors such as Stephen Crane, Edith Wharton, Jack London, Theodore Dreiser, and Kate Chopin, we will unravel the intricacies of naturalistic literature, where the relentless forces of nature serve as a backdrop against which characters confront their destinies, revealing the stark realities of the human condition. Join us on a journey through the pages of naturalistic narratives, where the relentless march of time and the indifference of nature paint a vivid tableau of life's struggles and triumphs.

Understanding Naturalism:

Naturalism in American literature is a literary movement that emerged in the late 19th century, emphasizing the deterministic forces of nature and environment on human behavior. It often presents a grim view of life, depicting characters struggling against uncontrollable circumstances.

Example: In Stephen Crane's novella "The Red Badge of Courage," the protagonist, Henry Fleming, faces the harsh realities of war, portraying the naturalistic theme of man's vulnerability to the indifferent forces of war.

Influence of Science and Darwinism:

Naturalistic writers were influenced by scientific theories, particularly Darwinism. They believed in applying scientific principles to literature, viewing characters as products of their environment and heredity.


*Example:* Edith Wharton's "Ethan Frome" explores the impact of rural life on its characters, depicting them as bound by the harsh realities of their environment and the constraints of society.

Pessimism and Determinism:

Naturalistic literature often presents a pessimistic outlook, suggesting that individuals have little control over their destinies. Deterministic forces, such as heredity and environment, shape the characters' lives.

Example: In Jack London's "To Build a Fire," the protagonist's struggle against the harsh Yukon environment underscores the naturalistic theme of man's futile battle against uncontrollable forces.

Depiction of Social Determinants:

Naturalism frequently delves into the impact of societal structures on individuals. It explores how social factors, such as poverty and class, shape the characters' lives and destinies.

Example: Theodore Dreiser's "Sister Carrie" portrays the protagonist's rise in the social hierarchy and the consequences of her choices, highlighting the deterministic nature of societal expectations.

Portrayal of Human Instincts and Desires:

Naturalistic literature often delves into raw human instincts and desires, showcasing how characters grapple with their basic needs in the face of challenging circumstances.

Example: Frank Norris's "McTeague" explores the descent of the protagonist into primal instincts as he succumbs to the pressures of poverty, jealousy, and societal expectations.

Nature as a Dominant Force:

Naturalistic writers use nature as a powerful force that shapes human experiences. The natural environment becomes a character in itself, influencing the characters' actions and outcomes.

Example: In Kate Chopin's "The Awakening," the Gulf of Mexico serves as a symbolic force representing both freedom and entrapment, contributing to the protagonist's journey of self-discovery. 

Thus naturalism plays a prominent role in American literature. 0 0 0. Naturalism in American Literature.

Critical Essays on American Literature:

  1. Father of American Literature
  2. African American Literature Books
  3. Realism in American Literature
  4. Early American Literature
  5. American Literature - An Overview
  6. How Are American Literature and American Identity Interrelated
  7. What Impact Did Poe Have on American Literature
  8. American Literature Syllabi
  9. 19th Century American Literature
  10. Best American Literature
  11. Great American Literature
  12. American Literature Timeline
  13. American Literature Periods
  14. American Literature Class
  15. Health Anthology of American Literature
  16. American Literature Textbooks
  17. Romanticism in American Literature
  18. How Did Archetype of Devil Symbolize American Literature
  19. Latin American Literature
  20. Apologia American Literature
  21. Is American Literature Hard
  22. Classic African American Literature
  23. American Literature Antholotges
  24. Survey of American Literature
  25. 20th Century American Literature
  26. American Literature Reading List
  27. My Perspectives of American Literature
  28. Modernism First Developed in American Literature
  29. American Literature Syllabus
  30. American Literature Books for High School
  31. American Literature Example
  32. American Literature Journal
  33. American Literature
  34. British English and American English Which is Easier
  35. A Brief History of American English
  36. Difference Between British English and American English
  37. History of American Literature
  38. Contemporary American Literature
  39. American Literature Movements
  40. Themes in American Literature
  41. Mexican American Literature
  42. Famous American Literature
  43. American Association Conference 2017
  44. American Literature Short Stories
  45. What Makes American Literature American..


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