A man said to the universe:

1

• A man said to the universe
• Sir I exist!
• However, replied the universe,
• The fact has not created in me
• A sense of obligation.
• Stephen Crane 1899

2
What exactly is naturalism?

• Naturalism is a type of literature that attempts
  to apply scientific principles of objectivity and
  detachment to its study of human beings.
• Humans respond to the natural world much like
  animals
• Humans are portrayed as victims of destiny or
  fate

3
Major Characteristics

• Characters can be studied through their
  relationships to their surroundings.
• The forces that govern human lives actions
  could be studied and understoodno longer some
  mystery.
• Humans were governed by their own instincts
  passions, as well as the forces of heredity
  environment (Huck Finn acts that way b/c he was
  born that way, etc.)
• Often a very pessimistic view on lifeif actions
  are already determined, why fight to change them?
• Characters in naturalistic books are ruled by the
  forces of heredity, instinct, and passionNOT
  free will or choice!
• Free will often appears as an illusionyou may
  think that you are acting on your own accord, but
  ha, ha, you are really just REACTING to
  outside/inside factors!

4
Naturalism in Literature?

• Character driven stories focused primarily on
  class differences
• Stories are a reflection of a particular region
  and its culture.
• Plot- stories of darkness, violence, despair, and
  discrimination.
• Story often takes place in an urban setting.
• Techniques- irony as a means for teaching people
  valuable lessons

5
What are the major themes of Naturalism?

• Survival
• Determinism
• Nature as an indifferent force acting in human
  lives
• Man vs. nature or man vs. himself

• Violence
• Taboo
• Passion
• Forces of heredity and environment as they affect
  the individual