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Verisimilitude (from Latin verisimilitudo, from verus true + similitudo similitude) is the state or quality of something which exhibits the appearance of truth or reality.
In literature
In literature, the term denotes the extent to which the characters and actions in a work of fiction exhibit realism or authenticity, or otherwise conform to our sense of reality. A work with a high degree of verisimilitude means that the work is very realistic and believable; works of this nature are often said to be "true to life".
Suspension of disbelief
Verisimilitude is also the willingness to suspend one's disbelief (even if the events or fictitious representations might otherwise be considered preposterous) when the intensity of the story or interest in the characters overrides the need to believe that things are scientifically correct.
Distinguishing truth from verisimilitude in popular culture
An example (in American popular culture) of the use of verisimilitude (as an effective plot device) would be the television program Fact or Fiction? This anthology television show (which aired from 1997 to 2002 and was produced by the FOX network) featured five stories (written as short sketches acted out by professional actors), some of which were true (Fact) and some of which were written to appear as true, but were works of fiction (verisimilitude). The main premise of the show was that the viewer was offered the challenge of determining which were true and which are false. At the end of each episode, of course, it would be revealed to the viewer which of the presented stories were true, and which were works of fiction.
Traditional uses of verisimilitude
Historically, verisimilitude has been used as a literary technique or plot device to assist a writer in presenting a work as actually true, which was important in times when it was taught that reading fiction was sinful. Authors use actual people, places, and things toward this end, but also realistic character and setting detail and realistic dialogue. Note how Chaucer, in The Canterbury Tales, uses London and England, a pilgrimage that actually took place yearly, a real inn in a real place, authentic description of clothing and occupations, and realistic dialogue.
The false document is a literary technique used to enhance verisimilitude.
Verisimilitude is also the Title of one of Track 22 in the soundtrack for Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events the movie, music by Thomas Newman.
Director Richard Donner adopted it as his motto during the filming of Superman, much to the confusion of his cast who had difficulty remembering the lengthy word and its meaning.
See also
"Verisimilitude"