Who is credited as the founding father of realism in European literature?

The recognition of Honoré de Balzac as a key figure in the development of realism in European literature is justified by his profound influence on the literary movement and his contributions through a comprehensive body of work known as "La Comédie Humaine." In this extensive series of interlinked novels and stories, Balzac presented an intricate and often unflinching portrayal of French society in the first half of the 19th century. His detailed characterizations, multifaceted depictions of social classes, and exploration of issues such as politics, business, and social ambition helped to establish the principles of realism, which sought to depict everyday life with authenticity and accuracy. This focus on the ordinary experiences of people laid the groundwork for future realist writers and set a precedent for the genre's evolution.

While Giovanni Verga, Henry Becque, and Pierre Beaumarchais made significant contributions to literature in their respective contexts, their works did not embody the same foundational principles of realism that Balzac's creations did. Verga is often associated with verismo, a specific Italian variant of realism, while Becque was known more for his innovative theatrical plays that predated the full development of realism. Beaumarchais was a playwright linked to the Enlightenment and is best