Final answer:
The correct answer is option 2. Paul Laurence Dunbar's poetic style was closely aligned with Realism, providing an authentic portrayal of African American experiences in a period that appreciated objective, truthful representations of everyday life.
Step-by-step explanation:
The African American poet, Paul Laurence Dunbar, is often associated with the Realistic literary movement. His poetry and other written works gave voice to the African American experience at a time when most of society focused on other matters. Dunbar's writing is marked by its vivid portrayal of both the achievements and adversities faced by African Americans, employing both standard English and Black dialect. This dual-style approach allowed for a broad appeal and a deepened sense of authenticity in his representation of Black life. His association with William Dean Howells, a prominent literary critic of the time, solidified his position as a leading figure amongst African American writers in the Realist period.
Realism as a literary movement sought to depict everyday life and society without romanticizing or idealizing it. Dunbar's work aligned with this principle, showcasing the often-overlooked aspects of the American landscape, akin to the efforts of authors like Mark Twain and Howells. This commitment to representing life as it was stands in contrast to the Romantic movement, which was prevalent before Realism and often emphasized emotion, individualism, and nature's splendor.
While both Romanticism and Realism sought to connect with their audiences, they differed significantly in their artistic approaches and themes. Romantic literature, such as the works of William Wordsworth, emphasized nature, individualism, and emotional depth. Realist writers, by contrast, focused on representing the complexities and truths of social dynamics and the human condition, aiming for accurate depictions over idealized representations.
In summary, Paul Laurence Dunbar's poetic style aligns closely with the principles of Realism, portraying social realities through a lens that includes the unique perspectives and experiences of the African American community.