Western literary styles encompass a variety of techniques and forms that have evolved over centuries, influenced by cultural, historical, and social changes. Key styles include realism, which focuses on depicting everyday life and ordinary characters, and romanticism, characterized by an emphasis on emotion, nature, and individualism. Other notable styles include modernism, which experiments with narrative structure and perspective, and postmodernism, known for its playful and self-referential approach. Each style reflects the values and concerns of its time, contributing to the rich tapestry of Western literature.