Lettre et langue anglaise

This lecture introduces students to Realism, one of the most influential literary movements in nineteenth-century America. Emerging after the Civil War, Realism represented a shift away from the imagination and idealism of Romanticism toward a faithful, objective depiction of everyday life. American Realist writers such as Mark Twain, William Dean Howells, and Henry James sought to portray the complexities of ordinary characters, social issues, and moral dilemmas without exaggeration or romantic coloring. The lecture examines the historical context that gave rise to Realism, its defining features, representative authors, and the ways it continues to shape American literary traditions.

Objectives of the Lecture

By the end of the session, students should be able to:

1. Define Realism and explain how it differs from Romanticism and other literary movements.

2. Identify the historical and cultural context that contributed to the rise of Realism in the United States after the Civil War.

3. Recognize the key characteristics of Realist literature, including its focus on ordinary life, social issues, and psychological depth.

4. Discuss major American Realist writers (e.g., Mark Twain, William Dean Howells, Henry James) and their contributions.

5. Analyze short excerpts or examples of Realist texts to illustrate themes and techniques.

6. Reflect on the significance of Realism in shaping American identity and literary history.