What is Literary naturalism?
Several characteristics of Naturalism: * The universe is a cold uncaring place. * Tries to present characters and situations realistically. * Characters are usually regular, everyday people from the middle or lower classes. * Humans are at the mercy of nature and heredity. (largely influenced by the concept of Darwinism, survival of the fittest.) * If you are looking at London’s “To Build A Fire,” consider the idea of “Dog smart; man dumb.” * There is no “greater plan” or purpose. * Consider Stephen Crane’s quote: “A man said to the Universe, ‘Sir, I exist.’ ‘That fact, however,’ replied the Universe, ‘does not create in me a sense of obligation.
