In the 19th century, Realism in France is often mistaken as literary movement because they felt that it laid too much truth specially on external reality. Meanwhile, America needed a type of literature that would explain what was happening to their society. American writers then turned to what is termed as modernism. The influence of realism and naturalismin the 19th century and their truthful illustration of American life and people was shown in post World War I modernism.
August's main conflict is internal conflict. All he sees in himself is his defect. He tries to be like every other kid, but people make him feel different when they stare and run away. The external conflict is between August and all of the kids that make fun of him.
Really hope this helps!
