What distinguishes American Naturalistic literature from Romanticism?

The distinction between American Naturalistic literature and Romanticism is most clearly illustrated through the emphasis on representing the real world, often with dark themes. Naturalism emerged as a reaction against the idealism and emotional emphasis of Romanticism, which celebrated nature, beauty, and often heroic individuals or noble ideals. In contrast, Naturalistic writers sought to portray life in a more realistic and sometimes bleak manner, focusing on the influences of environment, heredity, and social conditions on human behavior.

Naturalistic works typically depict the struggles of individuals against nature and society, often highlighting themes such as poverty, violence, and determinism. This portrayal can resonate with readers through its stark realism, contrasting the soaring aspirations typically associated with Romantic literature. The focus on the harsher realities of life aligns with the idea that humans are often powerless against their circumstances, reflecting a more pessimistic outlook on existence.

Other aspects like focus on idealism and nature, emphasis on plot-driven stories, and the use of classical and mythological themes better align with Romantic literature, which celebrates the emotional and the transcendent, rather than the gritty realism characteristic of Naturalism. Hence, the correct choice underscores the key thematic divergence between these two literary movements.