How is "realism" defined in the context of art?

Realism in the context of art is defined as a style that aims to represent subjects truthfully and accurately without embellishment. This movement emerged in the mid-19th century as a response to the romanticism and idealism that characterized much of the art before it. Realist artists sought to depict everyday life and ordinary people in a manner that was straightforward and honest, showcasing the world as it is, rather than how it could be or how it is perceived through an idealized lens.

By focusing on real-life situations, environments, and individuals, Realism emphasizes an unfiltered view of reality, often highlighting social conditions, working-class subjects, and the mundane aspects of life. This stands in stark contrast to other styles that rely on abstraction, exaggeration, or symbolic representations of ideas. The commitment to authenticity in observations, detail, and portrayal is what fundamentally defines Realism in art.