Advanced Placement (AP) English Literature Practice Exam

What is Naturalism in the literary context?

1. A focus on spiritual themes

2. A movement emphasizing human morality

3. A perspective that views individuals as victims of nature

4. A narrative driven by fantasy elements

The correct answer is: A perspective that views individuals as victims of nature

Naturalism in a literary context is best understood as a perspective that emphasizes the idea that individuals are often at the mercy of external forces beyond their control, particularly those found in nature and society. This philosophy stems from a belief that human behavior is shaped by heredity and environment, which often leads to a deterministic view of life. By presenting characters as products of their circumstances, Naturalism delves into the struggles against the harsh realities of life, illustrating how nature and social conditions impact individuals’ lives. This approach often highlights themes of survival, instinct, and the struggle against fate or natural circumstances, portraying characters as victims facing situations dictated by these uncontrollable elements. While some may associate the other choices with different literary movements or themes, they do not capture the essence of Naturalism as accurately as the correct choice does. For instance, focusing on spiritual themes relates more to Romanticism or Modernism, emphasizing human morality is more aligned with moral philosophy or ethical literature, and narratives driven by fantasy elements align with genres such as magical realism or speculative fiction. Each of these themes diverges significantly from the Naturalist perspective centered on the intersection of environment and human existence.