Social realism is an artistic and literary movement that focuses on depicting everyday life and the struggles of ordinary people, often highlighting social issues such as poverty, inequality, and injustice. It emerged in the early 20th century as a response to the romanticized portrayals of life, aiming to present a more truthful and unvarnished view of society. This movement is often associated with various forms of art, including painting, literature, and film. Notable figures include Diego Rivera in visual arts and John Steinbeck in literature, both of whom used their work to address the challenges faced by the working class and marginalized communities.