The Realism Movement emerged in the mid-19th century as a reaction against the romanticism that dominated art and literature. It aimed to depict everyday life and ordinary people with accuracy and truthfulness, focusing on the mundane aspects of life rather than idealized or heroic subjects. Artists and writers sought to represent the world as it is, often highlighting social issues and the struggles of the working class. Key figures in the movement include painters like Gustave Courbet and Édouard Manet, as well as writers such as Gustave Flaubert and Leo Tolstoy. Their works emphasized detailed observation and often portrayed the harsh realities of life, challenging traditional artistic conventions and encouraging a more honest representation of society.