What literary period is characterized by a focus on realism and the depiction of everyday life?

The Victorian era is indeed notable for its emphasis on realism and the detailed portrayal of everyday life. This period, which spans the reign of Queen Victoria from 1837 to 1901, marked a significant shift in literature where writers began to delve into the complexities of contemporary society, addressing social issues, moral questions, and the lives of ordinary people.

During this time, authors such as Charles Dickens, George Eliot, and Thomas Hardy focused on creating believable characters and situations, reflecting the realities and struggles of life in a rapidly industrializing society. Their works often highlight social injustices and explore the experiences of various social classes, providing readers with a vivid representation of Victorian life.

In contrast, the Romantic era, preceding the Victorian period, emphasized emotion, nature, and individualism rather than realism. The Modern era, which followed the Victorian period, introduced new forms and styles, often exploring themes of fragmentation and alienation rather than strictly focusing on the everyday. The Edwardian era, while it followed the Victorian, did not significantly alter the realistic portrayal of life but did tend to focus more on social manners and the complexities of class relationships, making the Victorian era the most emblematic of realism and everyday life depiction.