Verismo is an artistic movement that emerged in Italy during the late 19th century, primarily in literature and opera. It focuses on depicting everyday life and the struggles of ordinary people, often highlighting themes of realism and naturalism. Verismo sought to portray the raw emotions and harsh realities of life, moving away from romanticized ideals. In opera, composers like Pietro Mascagni and Ruggero Leoncavallo exemplified verismo through works such as Cavalleria Rusticana and Pagliacci. These operas feature realistic characters and situations, emphasizing human suffering and passion. Verismo remains influential in both literature and music, shaping modern storytelling.