Realism is an artistic and literary movement that emerged in the mid-19th century, focusing on depicting everyday life and ordinary people. It sought to represent subjects as they are, without idealization or romanticism, emphasizing authenticity and social issues. Realist artists and writers aimed to portray the realities of contemporary society, often highlighting the struggles of the working class. In visual arts, notable Realist figures include Gustave Courbet and Édouard Manet, who challenged traditional artistic conventions. In literature, authors like Honoré de Balzac and Leo Tolstoy explored complex characters and realistic settings, contributing to the movement's goal of reflecting true human experiences and societal conditions.