18th Century Spanish Literature: Enlightenment and Neoclassicism
The Enlightenment in Spain
During the 18th century, Europe was influenced by the Enlightenment, a movement that championed reason as the primary source of knowledge. However, its acceptance in Spain was slower compared to other countries. A new form of government emerged, known as enlightened despotism, guided by the principle of “Everything for the people, but without the people.” This era saw the establishment of new schools, the promotion of scientific development, a reduction in the nobility’s power, advancements in agriculture, commerce, and industry, and a wider dissemination of the press. Institutions like the National Library, the SAR, and the Museo del Prado were founded during this period. The 18th century is also recognized as the era of Neoclassicism, but it witnessed various literary phenomena:
- Postbarroquismo: Reduced to an extravagant art form lacking substance.
- Neoclassicism: Authors adhered to established rules, hindering the genuine expression of emotions in literature.
- Illustration and Critical Rationalism: Introduced concepts of equality, intellectual independence, and self-criticism.
- Pre-romanticism: Notions of fraternity and humanitarianism fostered the idea that progress and civilization could corrupt humanity.
18th Century Spanish Prose
Eighteenth-century prose evolved from Baroque tendencies, particularly in narrative genres. The picaresque novel concluded with “The Life of Don Diego Torres y Villarroel.” Key figures of this period include Feijoo, Cadalso, and Jovellanos.
Feijoo
Feijoo’s works, though controversial, garnered immense prestige and support. His most significant contribution is found in the eight volumes of “Universal Critical Theatre.” His writing style is characterized by simplicity and naturalness, prioritizing scientific instruction over aesthetics.
Cadalso
Cadalso’s most notable work is “Moroccan Letters.” He provides a comprehensive overview of the country, attributing Spain’s decline to the devastation caused by constant wars, the perceived laziness of its citizens, a resistance to scientific advancements, and poor social customs. Despite a degree of skepticism, Cadalso maintained faith in humanity and progress. He advocated for emulating the practices of more advanced nations.
Jovellanos
Jovellanos epitomizes the prevailing intellectual thought of the time. As a keen observer of Spanish society, he dedicated his life to finding practical solutions to contemporary issues. His most important work is “Report on the Agrarian Law.” His writings are primarily driven by a didactic purpose.
18th Century Spanish Poetry
Eighteenth-century poetry initially continued the Baroque tradition. Later, Neoclassicism, championed by Luzán’s aesthetic principles, gained prominence, imposing a model of poetry based on reason and good taste. Poems were expected to be balanced and avoid excessive sentimental expression.
Fables
The convergence of didacticism and criticism in the thought and literature of the time found expression in the fable, a characteristic genre of the period. Samaniego and Tomás de Iriarte were prominent figures in this genre. Samaniego, drawing inspiration from classical fables, wrote “Moral Fables,” characterized by irony and a prosaic tone. Tomás de Iriarte’s “Literary Fables” exhibited greater metrical variety and reflected the aesthetic concerns of the era.
Meléndez Valdés
Meléndez Valdés represents a synthesis of the two dominant poetic movements of the time: Anacreontic poetry and philosophical and social poetry. Anacreontic poetry comprises compositions centered on themes of love in pastoral settings, celebrating women and the pleasures of life. It is characterized by joy, sentimentality, and a prominent role for nature. In his “Epistle to his friend Jovino, from Salamanca,” Meléndez Valdés explored moral and philosophical themes, addressing topics such as agriculture and education.
Salamanca School of Poetry
By the second half of the 18th century, the Salamanca School of Poetry had begun its creative endeavors. Anacreontic poetry was the most cultivated genre among these poets, with notable figures including Nicasio Álvarez de Cienfuegos and Manuel José Quintana.
Seville Academy of Good Letters
In the latter part of the century, Seville became home to the “Academy of Good Letters,” which aimed to revive the poetic tradition of Fernando de Herrera.
18th Century Spanish Theatre
During the first half of the century, theatre retained the forms of the previous century, emphasizing Baroque features in language and relying heavily on elaborate stage design. Later, trends shifted, drawing inspiration from French classical theatre. Plays were expected to promote reformist ideas and educate audiences. Some key principles for dramatic works included adherence to the rule of three unities, a plausible plot, decorum in character portrayal, adherence to a single genre (avoiding the mixing of tragedy and comedy).
Tragedy
Within the realm of tragedy, prominent figures included Nicolás Fernández de Moratín and Vicente García de la Huerta, author of “Raquel.” Moratín’s dramatic output consisted solely of comedies, as he believed this genre was best suited to depict national customs and vices. His works have a clear didactic and moral purpose, aligning with Neoclassical principles. The main themes he explored were freedom of choice in marriage and equality between spouses. Some of his most important works include “The Old Man and the Girl” and “The Yes of the Girls.”
Ramón de la Cruz and the Farce
Ramón de la Cruz represents the traditional line in 18th-century theatre. His sainetes (short, comic sketches) captured the customs and popular tastes of Madrid at the time. The farce, closely related to the interlude of traditional theatre, was performed between acts of major tragedies and plays. Ramón’s sainetes are characterized by dynamism, frequent scene changes, and the inclusion of songs and dances. Romance is the predominant verse form. Some of his most important works include “Don’t Touch Me, Roque’s House” and “Manolo.”