What is henry james the real thing about?

Henry James was an American writer who lived from 1843-1916. He is known for his literary contributions in the late 19th and early 20th century that include novels, novellas, and short stories. One of his famous works is "The Real Thing," which was published in 1892.

"The Real Thing" is a short story about an artist who is commissioned to paint a picture of a beautiful young woman. However, he becomes disillusioned with his subject when he realizes that she is shallow and artificial. His frustration leads him to seek out a more genuine muse, whom he finds in the form of a poor but authentic couple.

The story is a commentary on the importance of authenticity and genuine character in art. James uses his characters to explore the idea that true beauty and depth come from within, rather than from external appearances or social status.

Overall, "The Real Thing" is a classic example of James' literary style, which is known for its psychological depth, complex characters, and exploration of social and cultural norms.