Final answer:
Realism is a literary movement that began in France and spread to America and England in the late 19th century, focusing on the accurate representation of everyday life and pushing for social reform through works of realistic fiction by authors like Mark Twain.
Step-by-step explanation:
Realism in Literature
Realism is a literary movement that developed in France, America, and England in the late 19th century. It was a type of realistic fiction that emerged as a reaction to the previous Romantic era. Realism sought to portray life as it was, focusing on everyday life and the social issues of the time. The movement depicted ordinary people in ordinary life situations, often highlighting the changes brought on by the Industrial and Commercial Revolutions. In literature, it emphasized characters, situations, and dialogue that reflected common experiences and the societal norms of the middle class. For example, novels by Mark Twain, Rebecca Harding Davis, and Stephen Crane represented this style. Realist works depicted authentic and sometimes unpleasant aspects of life as a way to push for social reform.