Definition: Naturalism is a theory in literature which emphasizes the role of environment upon human characters. It is an extreme form of realism which arose in the early 20th century. Rather than focusing on the internal qualities of their characters, authors called out the effects of heredity and environment, outside forces, on humanity.
Examples:
In American Literature, Jack London is an example of a naturalist writer depicting man's struggle for survival in his environment.
More Literary Terms Defined
