Final answer:
Realist drama is characterized by characters drawn true to life, reflecting their social states and experiences, unlike other theatrical styles that might focus on idealization, historical inaccuracies, or classical abstractions.
Step-by-step explanation:
One characteristic of realist drama is that characters are drawn to be true to life and their behaviors, decisions, and the plot are a reflection of their social states. Realist drama aims to mimic the complexities of real life, with plausible events and interactions, often highlighting social issues and human experiences.
Contrasting options such as deliberately incorrect historical costumes and performances, prettified settings, and contrived endings, or a return to classical conventions and abstractions, do not align with the principles of realist drama. Instead, realism in theatre is about portraying life as it is, often with a critical eye on society and the factors that influence individuals. Characters in realist plays are depicted in a manner that the audience can relate to, showing genuine emotions and reactions that echo real-world situations.