The correct option for why Hamlin Garland's "The Return of a Private" is classified as realism is:
They present readers with a faithful representation of people, places, and events that they can recognize and relate to.
Realism as a literary movement focuses on depicting everyday life and society in a truthful and unembellished manner, reflecting the experiences and struggles of ordinary people. Garland's work exemplifies this by portraying the challenges faced by veterans returning home and the impact of war on individuals and their communities.