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How did literary realism differ from naturalism in American writing?

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John Smith: Map of Virginia — American literature Map of Virginia from John Smith's *The Generall Historie of Virginia, New England, and the Summer Isles*, 1624.

In American literature, realism and naturalism are closely related movements that emerged in the late 19th century to provide a detailed, unembellished vision of the world. While realism sought to present life as it truly was, naturalism functioned as an intensified, more scientific extension of this approach.12

The primary differences between the two include:

Philosophical Basis: Realism focused on a faithful representation of contemporary life and social reality. Naturalism, however, was grounded in scientific determinism, viewing human beings as products of their heredity and environment rather than as rational agents with free will.21
Characterization: Realist characters were often depicted with attention to their moral and rational qualities. In contrast, naturalistic authors portrayed characters as helpless subjects driven by instinctual urges and external social or economic pressures, often treating them like specimens under a microscope.2
Tone and Scope: Realism aimed for an objective, detailed depiction of reality. Naturalism frequently adopted a more pessimistic outlook, focusing on sordid or oppressive environments—such as slums or the underworld—and documenting them with dreary detail, often reflecting a nature that was "red in tooth and claw".12