It provided a foundation for modern literature's focus on the real world. Modern writers often look back to 19th - century realism for inspiration on how to depict life accurately. For example, the idea of complex characters with mixed motives comes from this era.
19th - century realism influenced modern literature in terms of its social awareness. Today, many novels still deal with social issues, much like their predecessors did. The way that 19th - century realist novels exposed problems in society set an example for modern authors to use literature as a tool for social change.