Realism in art is a style that aims to depict subjects and scenes from everyday life with truth and accuracy, avoiding exaggeration or embellishment. It emerged in the mid-19th century, challenging the romanticism and idealization prevalent at the time.

Realism holds significance in Art History II - Realism as it represents a pivotal movement that shifted the focus of art towards the mundane and everyday scenes, offering a more truthful and relatable depiction of life.

Artists such as Gustave Courbet, Jean-François Millet, and Édouard Manet are frequently associated with the realism movement in Art History II - Realism, known for their commitment to depicting real-life situations and ordinary people.

Notable paintings that exemplify realism in Art History II - Realism include Gustave Courbet's 'The Stone Breakers,' Jean-François Millet's 'The Gleaners,' and Édouard Manet's 'Olympia,' each capturing the essence of realism's devotion to lifelike representation.

Realism in Art History II - Realism laid the groundwork for subsequent movements like naturalism and later, the development of photography and impressionism, by honing the depiction of ordinary life and visible reality, thus broadening the horizon for modern art.