"The Real Thing" is a short story by Henry James, which plays with the reality-illusion dichotomy that fascinated James, especially in the latter stages of his career. The story portrays the unfortunate victims of a society in which reality and representation are closely intertwined in ways that make art a difficult project to untangle the two.

Henry James (1843–1916) was an illustrious American-born writer, regarded for his literary finesse and profound insight into the consciousness of his characters. James' prolific career was marked by his exploration of the complexities of morality, society, and human relationships, often employing a style characterized by a meticulous attention to psychological detail and a deft use of interior monologues. His work is seen as a bridge between the assertive realism of the 19th century and the introspective modernist stream of consciousness that would dominate the 20th. 'The Real Thing and Other Tales' is a fine example of his narrative skill and artistic subtlety, showcasing his lifelong interest in the themes of reality, artifice, and the question of authenticity in both art and human relations. James' literary contribution is not only seen in his short stories but also in his novels, which include 'The Portrait of a Lady' and 'The Wings of the Dove'. His dialogue-heavy composition and deep focus on character psychology have had a lasting impact on both American and European literature. James' expatriation and long residence in England aided in his distinction as a transatlantic writer, who, eventually, turned his gaze inward on the intimate lives of his creations, earning him a reputation as a master of the literary form and a significant figure in the Western canon.