The modern reader is very well familiarized with the characteristics of Realism, the predominant movement during the Victorian era. However, when this current appeared in opposition to Romanticism, it brought something new and unexpected. This article is intended to point out these novel features which in fact did not emerge altogether, but gradually, interweaving with those belonging to the previous movement. This is valid for the rise of all literary flows. Therefore, while studying Victorian literature, it is imperative to take into consideration the overall context, particularly the impact of earlier and later influences displayed in the realist novels.