ETS Major Field Test English Literature (British) Practice Test 2026 – Complete Exam Prep

The major literary movement that followed Romanticism in British literature is Realism. This movement emerged as a reaction to the idealism and emotional expression of Romanticism, focusing instead on depicting everyday life and ordinary situations with a more objective perspective. Realism aimed to represent life as it truly is—emphasizing the mundane and the authentic experiences of individuals within society.

While Modernism is indeed a significant movement that arose later and is often seen as a reaction to both Realism and earlier trends, it postdates Realism. Modernism introduces themes of fragmentation, disillusionment, and a break from traditional forms and narratives, reflecting the complexities of a rapidly changing world during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Naturalism, which can be considered a subset or offshoot of Realism, specifically emphasizes a deterministic view of human behavior and often includes elements of scientific observation and influence.

Postmodernism, emerging in the mid-20th century, further evolves beyond Modernism, characterized by experimentation, irony, and a questioning of narratives and truths.

In summary, Realism directly follows Romanticism, making it the appropriate answer to the question regarding the major literary movement that came next in British literature.