The videos below discuss the context and characteristics of American literary realism, regionalism, and naturalism.

Realism: The Artistic Form of the Truth is an excellent film in which scholars and historians explore the origins of realism in Europe and America, considering its emergence and impact in literature, art, and film. (54 minutes) Films on Demand.  Note that you will be asked to use your college login to view this film.

Realism in Visual Arts

Many visual artists as well as writers turned toward a realistic style from 1865-1914. The paintings below provide two examples of a realistic portrayal of urban life in the U.S. during this time.