Realism in painting, emerging in the mid-19th century, broke away from the idealized scenes and historical narratives that dominated art. Realist painters aimed for a truthful portrayal of the world around them, focusing on everyday people and events. Gone were the romanticized heroes and mythological figures. Instead, artists like Gustave Courbet and Jean-Francois Millet depicted common laborers, the struggles of the working class, and the unvarnished realities of contemporary life.

This shift wasn't simply aesthetic. Realism reflected the social and political changes of the time. The rise of industry and the growth of cities brought new challenges and inequalities. Realist paintings offered a window into these realities, sparking conversations about social justice and the plight of the working class. The movement also democratized art by celebrating the lives of ordinary people, previously deemed unworthy subjects for grand canvases. Realism's influence extended far beyond the art world, paving the way for later movements that explored social issues and challenged artistic conventions.